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Parental Alienation

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Combating Parental Alienation

Illinois Attorney Advocating for Parent-Child Relationships

Divorce and custody disputes are inherently difficult, but they become even more painful when one parent attempts to turn a child against the other. This damaging behavior, widely known as parental alienation, is a serious issue that can inflict lasting harm on a child and sever the bond they share with a parent.

At Reifman Law Offices, we are committed to protecting your parental rights and, most importantly, your child’s well-being. If you believe your relationship with your child is being intentionally undermined, we are here to provide the compassionate and firm legal advocacy you need to address the situation and restore your family’s health.

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent deliberately engages in a pattern of behavior to damage, or even destroy, the child’s relationship with the other parent. It goes far beyond occasional frustration or disagreement; it is a calculated effort to manipulate a child’s feelings and loyalty.

Common examples of alienating behaviors include:

  • Constantly bad-mouthing or belittling the other parent in front of the child.
  • Interfering with scheduled parenting time or communication.
  • Making false allegations against the other parent.
  • Blaming the other parent for the divorce or financial problems.
  • Forcing the child to choose sides or act as a messenger.

These actions place an immense emotional burden on a child and are fundamentally contrary to their best interests.

How Parental Alienation Impacts Custody

Illinois law requires that all custody decisions be based on the best interests of the child. A key factor in this determination is each parent’s willingness to foster and encourage a close and continuing relationship between the child and the other parent. Parental alienation is in direct opposition to this principle.

When a court finds that a parent is engaging in alienating behaviors, it can have serious consequences for their parental responsibilities. A judge may:

  • Order family therapy or counseling to repair the damaged relationship.
  • Appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to investigate the situation and represent the child’s interests.
  • Modify the existing parenting plan to restrict the alienating parent’s time or decision-making authority, or increase the alienated parent’s time.

The court’s primary objective in these cases is to protect the child from further emotional harm and ensure they can enjoy a healthy relationship with both parents.

Protecting Your Relationship and Your Rights

If you suspect parental alienation, it is critical to take action. Begin by carefully documenting every incident, including dates, times, specific statements, and any witnesses. Save relevant text messages, emails, or social media posts. This evidence is vital for building a strong case.

Contact a Schaumburg Parental Alienation Attorney

Successfully demonstrating a claim of parental alienation requires sensitivity and significant legal understanding. Reifman Law Offices can guide you, protect your rights, and advocate for your child’s well-being. Contact us today at 847-229-8433 to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We serve families throughout Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, West Dundee, Barrington, Streamwood, Palatine, and the surrounding communities.

At Reifman Law Offices,

we will take the weight of dealing with family legal issues off of your shoulders.
Call Us 847-229-8433

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Arkady Reifman

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