How Can I Prove Parental Alienation In Maryland?

Parental alienation is a term used to describe a situation in which one parent turns the child against the other parent, causing the child to reject that parent. Child custody matters can be contentious and divorces can be bitter, but the courts have no respect for parents who attempt to alienate children from their former spouses.  How can you prove one parent is attempting to turn the child against the other parent? In this article, the Maryland divorce lawyers at Schlaich & Thompson, Chartered will discuss how to prove parental alienation in court.

Legal recognition of parental alienation 

Maryland has no statute that directly deals with parental alienation. Instead, the concept is generally recognized within the broader legal framework that governs child custody and the “best interests of the children” standard. Maryland courts will always focus on the child’s best interests when determining custody matters. Any evidence that one parent is attempting to undermine the child’s relationship with the other parent can significantly impact the court’s attitude toward that parent. Proving alienation, however, requires that the alienated parent demonstrate that these behaviors have caused a measurable impact on the child’s attitude toward the other parent.

Collecting evidence of parental alienation

• Documented patterns of behavior – You will need to present evidence of interactions, communications, and incidents that demonstrate alienating behaviors. This can include text messages, emails, or eyewitness testimony.

• Expert testimony – Mental health professionals who specialize in child psychology and access assessments can provide testimony regarding the impact of the alienation on the child. Expert analysis provides the court with a professional understanding of how alienation impacts the child’s wellbeing. They can also testify to behavioral changes and present opinions on the influence of both parents on the child.

• Witness testimony – Any individual who has observed the dynamics between the parent and the child can provide testimony to the court concerning parental alienation.

• The child’s testimony – Depending on the age and maturity of the child, the child themselves can present testimony regarding the other parent, what they said, and whether or not they’re attempting to influence the child against the alienated parent.

How should I address parental alienation?

Addressing parental alienation requires a meticulous legal approach to prove that one parent is not acting in the best interests of the children. Maryland courts default on the premise that having both parents in the child’s life is in the child’s best interests unless one parent can prove abuse, neglect, unfitness or similar issues. If you suspect the other parent is attempting to undermine your relationship with your child, it is critical to seek legal advice immediately before your relationship with your child degrades completely.

Requesting a formal access assessment may be your next move. The court will conduct a comprehensive assessment with a court-appointed expert who evaluates all aspects of the child’s life, including their relationship with their parents. This individual can identify evidence of alienation.

Talk to a Maryland Child Custody Lawyer Today 

The Bel Air family lawyers at Schlaich & Thompson, Chartered represent the interests of parents who are attempting to prove that their co-parent is undermining their relationship with their child. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your concerns right away.