Parental Alienation Lawyers in Maine

Many divorce and custody battles invoke strong emotions in both parents and children. It is crucial that parents find an outlet for their feelings and not take their bitterness or anger to their children.

They should also do what they can to support their child’s relationship with the other parent. Sometimes, children can receive subtle or even direct messages that can alienate them from one parent.

If you feel like your ex-spouse is making purposeful attempts at turning your children against you, don’t wait to contact a Maine family law attorney from The Maine Divorce Group. The longer you wait, the worse the situation could get.

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent – more often, it is the custodial parent – does not use their parental rights responsibly. This is usually done by persistent patterns of behavior or teachings of the alienating parent, or through brainwashing with the goal of getting the child to disrespect and not want to be with the other parent.

When one parent makes deliberate attempts to keep or distance their child from their other parent, parent alienation occurs. For example, a mother discloses a lot of information about their father’s affair with the children in an attempt to get them to turn away from him. Other instances of parental alienation include:

• Blaming the other spouse for financial problems or the divorce itself
• Making a child choose between one parent over the other
• Not being flexible with the visitation schedule when it is necessary for a child’s well-being
• Listening in on telephone calls between the other parent and your child
• Creating temptations for the child that interfere with the visitation of the other parent
• Encouraging the child not to follow the rules in their other parent’s home

What Can You Do About Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation can feel extremely violating and hurtful. It is crucial that you document everything your child’s other parent is doing in attempts to alienate you from the children. Use a calendar to keep track of visitations, and if they were late or absent.

It may be difficult, but keeping your emotions under control may reduce the attempts as they will be seen as unsuccessful.

You also do not want to give the other parent the impression that you are emotionally unstable. Enlist the expertise of a Guardian Ad Litem who can evaluate all the dynamics of the situation.

Finally, reach out to a seasoned Maine family law attorney who can advise you of your legal rights and help you pursue your options.

Contact a Parental Alienation & Custody Attorney in Maine today

Parental alienation can be one of the worst and most frustrating post-divorce experiences a parent can have. It should not be tolerated as it is not only harmful to you, but it is not in the best interest of your child. That is where we come in. Our attorneys can examine your situation, enlist the necessary professionals, and pursue resolution for you and your children. Contact us today to receive your legal consultation with one of your attorneys who can direct you during this difficult time.