If you are divorcing with children, child custody can become a source of contention, as both parties strive to maximize their time with their children. One strategy a parent may resort to to secure more parenting time is parental alienation, wherein they manipulate their child to harbor negative feelings toward the other parent. Parental alienation is extremely damaging. Although this syndrome is not formally recognized as a psychological diagnosis, parental alienation can affect child custody if the targeted parent can prove it. Please continue reading to learn more about parental alienation and how a trusted Nassau County Child Custody Lawyer can help you hold your former spouse accountable for the harm they have caused.
What is Parental Alienation?
This type of psychological manipulation is most often seen in contentious divorces. It occurs when one parent attempts to destroy the child’s relationship with the other parent by manipulating the child into having negative feelings toward the other parent. The result of parental alienation can be devastating as it prevents the child from wanting to see their other parent, leading to strained or severed relationships. The alienating parent may engage in the following behaviors:
- Defaming or excessively criticizing the targeted parent
- Withholding important information
- Restricting or limiting contact
- Forcing the child to pick a side
- Falsifying narratives
- Confiding in the child or exploiting their emotions
- Blaming the parent for the targeted parent for the breakdown of the marriage
It’s important to understand that parental alienation may not be directly outlawed in New York; however, it’s recognized as a form of child abuse and, as such, can impact custody decisions.
How Does Parental Alienation Impact Custody in New York?
When determining custody, New York courts prioritize the best interests of a child. Unless proven otherwise, the court believes that maintaining a relationship with both parents is in a child’s best interest. If a parent violates a custody agreement by refusing to allow you to see your child, you can have the court enforce the terms. Parental alienation can be used as a basis for custody modifications, as this type of behavior is not in the best interests of the child. Unfortunately, proving parental alienation isn’t easy. Before the court alters an existing custody arrangement, it must be demonstrated with substantial evidence that it’s in the child’s best interest to change the custody arrangement.
If you are experiencing parental alienation and your former spouse is withholding access to your child for no justifiable reason, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced Nassau County child custody lawyer who can fight to protect your rights and ensure your child’s well-being. Our legal team can help gather evidence to support your claims. At the Law Offices of Eyal Talassazan, P.C., we are prepared to fight for you and your family. If you are a victim of parental alienation, please don’t hesitate to contact our firm today to learn more about how we can assist you.
