If you’re dealing with parental alienation in your New York divorce case, you’re not alone. The situation you’re facing can feel overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally draining. Many parents in similar situations share your concerns, and it’s understandable to feel like you’re caught in an impossible situation. It is important to remember that you don’t have to go through this battle alone. There are experienced attorneys who can help guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the best interests of your children. At Cole, Sorrentino, Hurley, Hewner & Gambino, P.C., we are empathetic to the emotional toll these cases can take. We understand the complexity of the situation and are here to help you navigate it effectively.
Richard H. Cole
Partner
Thomas F. Hewner
Partner
Donna L. Haslinger
Partner
Vivian P. Roche'
Partner
Keith R. Rosso
Attorney
Tasha D. Frazie
Attorney
What is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation occurs when one parent undermines the relationship between the other parent and their child. It is a form of psychological manipulation where one parent attempts to turn the child against the other parent, usually with the intent of damaging or completely severing the relationship. This could involve false accusations, spreading negative information, or making the child feel uncomfortable or guilty about spending time with the other parent. The effects of parental alienation can be far-reaching, not only impacting the child’s relationship with both parents but also their emotional well-being.
When dealing with parental alienation, it’s important to know that the court will always prioritize the best interests of the child. Unfortunately, this form of manipulation can complicate custody and visitation decisions. In New York, family courts take parental alienation seriously because of its potential harm to children, and they will consider this factor when making decisions about custody arrangements. If you feel that you are being targeted by parental alienation, it’s crucial to address it promptly with the help of an experienced attorney.
Signs of Parental Alienation in Divorce Cases
Recognizing parental alienation can be difficult, especially when emotions are running high during a divorce. Some signs that your child may be experiencing parental alienation include sudden, unexplained reluctance to spend time with you, negative statements about you that seem out of character or age-inappropriate, or the child displaying unreasonably strong loyalty to the other parent. In more severe cases, the child may completely reject the targeted parent or refuse contact altogether.
In many cases, the child may not even realize that they are being influenced by the other parent. Children often view their parents as authority figures and may not understand that they are being manipulated. It’s essential to approach the situation with care, keeping the child’s emotional health in mind while working to restore the bond between you and your child. An attorney can help you identify signs of parental alienation and develop a strategy to address it in your case.
Legal Options to Address Parental Alienation in New York
New York courts provide avenues for addressing parental alienation in divorce cases. The first step is often to document the behavior and gather evidence that shows the alienation is taking place. This can include text messages, emails, or testimony from witnesses who have observed the interactions between you, your child, and the other parent. The more evidence you can present, the stronger your case will be.
One of the primary tools used to address parental alienation is a request for a modification of custody or visitation. If the alienation is severe and ongoing, the court may adjust the custody arrangement to ensure that the child is able to maintain a healthy relationship with both parents. In some cases, supervised visitation may be ordered, or a mental health professional may be appointed to work with the family. Courts may also order counseling for the child and parents to address the alienation and work toward reconciliation.
It’s important to remember that New York family courts take allegations of parental alienation seriously and will thoroughly investigate the situation before making any changes to custody or visitation. Your attorney will play a key role in presenting evidence and advocating on your behalf.
The Emotional Impact of Parental Alienation
Dealing with parental alienation can be emotionally exhausting. Parents who experience alienation may feel helpless, hurt, and frustrated as they watch their relationship with their child deteriorate. It’s not uncommon for the targeted parent to experience feelings of isolation or guilt, wondering what they could have done differently to prevent the situation.
For children, parental alienation can also be incredibly damaging. In some cases, children may feel caught between their parents and may develop a sense of confusion about their loyalties. They may struggle with feelings of guilt, sadness, or anger as they try to understand the situation. The longer parental alienation is allowed to continue, the more difficult it can be for both the parent and the child to rebuild their relationship.
Taking steps to address parental alienation as early as possible can help minimize the emotional harm to both you and your child. By working with an attorney, you can take proactive measures to protect your rights and the well-being of your child. This may include seeking therapy or counseling, both for yourself and for your child, as well as taking legal steps to address the alienation in court.
How an Attorney Can Help with Your Parental Alienation Case
If you are facing parental alienation in a New York divorce case, you may be wondering what your options are and how the legal process works. A knowledgeable attorney can be an invaluable resource during this time. At Cole, Sorrentino, Hurley, Hewner & Gambino, P.C., we are committed to guiding you through the legal process and fighting for the best interests of your child.
An attorney can help you identify and document instances of parental alienation, gather the necessary evidence, and build a strong case to present to the court. They can also advise you on the best course of action, whether that involves seeking a modification of custody, requesting supervised visitation, or pursuing counseling for your child. Throughout the process, an attorney will work to ensure that your rights are protected and that your child’s emotional well-being is prioritized.
In addition to providing legal representation, an attorney can offer emotional support and guidance during what is undoubtedly a difficult and stressful time. Having someone on your side who understands the complexities of parental alienation and who is dedicated to achieving a positive outcome for you and your child can make all the difference.
If you’re dealing with parental alienation in your divorce case, don’t wait to take action. The sooner you address the issue, the better the chances of restoring your relationship with your child and minimizing the emotional damage caused by alienation. At Cole, Sorrentino, Hurley, Hewner & Gambino, P.C., we understand how difficult this situation can be, and we are here to provide the support and legal representation you need. Let us help you navigate this challenging process and work toward a resolution that protects your rights and the well-being of your child. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you get the successful case result you deserve.