Parental Alienation is a form of manipulation in which one parent tries to turn a child against the other parent. This is often seen in divorce cases and can have a lasting impact on the child and their relationship with the alienated parent. In Kansas, there are legal strategies that can be employed to address parental alienation during a divorce proceeding. In this article, we will explore some effective legal strategies to handle parental alienation in a Kansas divorce.
Understanding Parental Alienation
Parental Alienation is a serious issue that can have long-lasting effects on a child’s mental health and their relationship with the alienated parent. It is important to understand the signs of parental alienation to address the problem effectively. Common signs of parental alienation include:
- False accusations of abuse or neglect
- Limiting or preventing contact with the other parent
- Disparaging remarks about the other parent in front of the child
- Encouraging the child to take sides against the other parent
- Making negative comments about the other parent’s family and friends
- Refusing to allow the child to take belongings to the other parent’s home
- Forbidding the child from attending special events with the other parent
Recognizing the signs of parental alienation is vital in addressing the problem effectively. If you suspect that parental alienation is taking place, it is essential to take action quickly.
Legal Strategies to Address Parental Alienation
There are several legal strategies that can be employed to address parental alienation during a Kansas divorce. Here are some effective ways to handle this issue:
Request a Child Custody Evaluation
One of the most effective ways to address parental alienation is to request a child custody evaluation. This involves a mental health professional evaluating the child, both parents, and any other relevant individuals in the child’s life to determine what custody arrangements would be in the child’s best interests. This type of evaluation can reveal any instances of parental alienation and provide a basis for the court to make a custody decision.
File a Motion for Parenting Time Enforcement
If one parent is preventing the other parent from having parenting time, it may be necessary to file a motion for parenting time enforcement. This legal document requests that the court enforce the parenting time order and hold the violating parent in contempt of court if they do not comply. This can be an effective way to ensure that both parents have the opportunity to spend time with the child.
Request a Guardian Ad Litem
Another legal strategy to consider is requesting a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL). A GAL is a court-appointed individual who represents the best interests of the child in the divorce proceeding. A GAL can investigate allegations of parental alienation and make recommendations to the court regarding custody arrangements. While a GAL may be an additional expense, they can provide valuable support in addressing parental alienation.
Ask for a Modification of Custody
If the evidence shows that parental alienation is occurring, it may be necessary to request a modification of custody. In Kansas, a request for modification of custody can be filed if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the initial custody decision. Evidence of parental alienation can be considered a significant change in circumstances that warrants a modification of custody. This legal strategy may be necessary to protect the child’s relationship with the alienated parent.
Conclusion
Parental alienation is a serious issue that can have a lasting impact on a child’s mental health and their relationship with the alienated parent. If you suspect that parental alienation is occurring during a Kansas divorce, it is essential to take action quickly. There are legal strategies available that can help to address parental alienation and protect the child’s well-being. By understanding the signs of parental alienation and working with an experienced family law attorney, you can take the necessary steps to protect your child’s relationship with both parents and promote their overall well-being.