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October 18, 2019

How Might Parental Alienation Affect My Indiana Family Law Case?

Parents arguing around child
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Posted by: GDS Law Group, LLP

It can be difficult to cope with parental alienation as a divorced or separated parent. Since parental alienation can negatively impact your child in the long run, it’s important to take action right away if you do suspect it.

If you believe parental alienation exists in your child’s life, it is in your best interest to consult our Anderson, IN family lawyers at GDS Law Group, LLP as soon as possible. You can count on us to investigate your case and inform you of your legal options. Call us at 765-313-7092 today.

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent encourages their child to reject the other parent for unfair reasons. If one parent frequently tells a child negative stories about the other parent or lies to them, parental alienation likely exists.

Parental alienation may also be present if one parent forces the other child into thinking of the other parent negatively or discourages them from having a relationship with or contacting them. Essentially, parental alienation aims to prevent a child from having a meaningful relationship with their other parent.

Warning Signs of Parental Alienation

Parental alienation may be occurring if your child:

  • Has stopped calling you an endearing name,
  • Seems uncomfortable around you,
  • Only gives you short answers or barely talks to you at all,
  • Blames you for their other parent’s problems,
  • Doesn’t inform you of their sporting events and extracurricular activities, or
  • Acts angry around you and asks to see their other parent during their time with you.

Sometimes, a child is just acting like a child. However, other times, their actions may be a sign of a serious problem like parental alienation.

How to Prove Parental Alienation

It can be difficult to prove parental alienation. Here are some tips that can help you do so:

  • Document patterns of behavior that indicate parental alienation in a journal. Make sure your entries are detailed and include the date and time.
  • Screenshot and save any social media posts from your ex or child that contain negative comments about you.
  • Ask to see your child via text or email as you may be able to capture lying or negativity and avoid a “he said-she said” situation.
  • Seek counseling so that a counselor can prove that you took steps to improve the situation and provide examples that you are trying to work with the co-parent effectively.

Why Take Legal Action

If you are being alienated by your child, it’s important to take legal action before the issue worsens. As the child’s other parent, it is your responsibility to keep your child’s best interests in mind when your former spouse is failing to do so. By working with an experienced family lawyer, you can learn about the various legal options available to you.

Since Indiana courts place a high value on children of divorced parents having a positive relationship with both parents, you may be able to order the at-fault parent to stop this behavior. Also, you be granted additional time with your child through a different custody or visitation plan. In addition, if you are paying child support to the parent, it may be suspended.

A lawyer can help you uncover whether parental alienation truly exists and collect evidence to build a strong case in the event that it does. Sometimes, legal action is the only way to stop this serious problem.

Contact GDS Law Group, LLP

Parental alienation cases can be quite complicated and emotionally draining for you and your child. That’s why, our Anderson, IN family lawyers at GDS Law Group, LLP are dedicated to helping you fight for your rights. Contact us at 765-313-7092 today to discuss your case and legal options.

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