Facing Parental Alienation Issues in Illinois?

Have you been shut out of your kids’ life by your ex? Are you dealing with the heartache of parental alienation in Illinois? You’re not alone! Understanding your legal rights and options can make a difference. Let’s explore ways to reconnect with your children and heal those important family bonds.

 

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent deliberately tries to distance their child from the other parent. This can involve derogatory comments, false accusations, or manipulative behaviors. It’s a serious issue that affects the emotional well-being of both the child and the alienated parent.

For example, a custodial parent might tell their child that the other parent doesn’t love them or doesn’t want to see them, even when it’s untrue. Such actions can lead to long-term psychological harm and create lasting rifts in familial relationships.

How Does Parental Alienation Affect Custody?

In Illinois, the court prioritizes the best interests of the child in custody decisions. If there’s evidence of parental alienation, it can significantly impact custody arrangements. The alienating parent’s behavior may be seen as harmful, potentially resulting in a reduction of their parenting time. Judges may also mandate counseling or therapy for the family to address the underlying issues and promote healthier parent-child relationships.

Signs of Parental Alienation to Watch For

  • Negative Talk: Your child consistently speaks poorly about you without justification.
  • Coaching: When your child starts to say or do things that are inconsistent with their personality and it seems like they are repeating someone else’s thoughts or actions. 
  • Unreasonable Fear: Your child suddenly shows fear or reluctance to spend time with you.
  • Lack of Guilt: Your child doesn’t seem to feel guilty about their negative behavior towards you.
  • Refusal to Visit: Your child refuses to visit or communicate with you despite previously having a good relationship.

What Can You Do If You Suspect Parental Alienation?

If you suspect that your child is being alienated from you, it’s crucial to take action right away. Here are some steps you can take:

Document the Behavior

Keep a record of any incidents or conversations that may indicate parental alienation. This documentation can be used as evidence in court if needed. Additionally, maintaining thorough records can help legal professionals, such as law attorneys and mental health professionals, better understand the situation and provide appropriate support. We recommend keeping your notes in a cloud-based application (e.g. Google Docs) so that you can access and add to your notes at any time.

Seek Legal Help

Consult with a family law attorney who has experience in parental alienation cases. They can advise you on the best course of action and potentially help you modify custody agreements.

Focus on the Well-Being of Your Child

While it’s understandable to feel angry and hurt, prioritize your child’s emotional well-being above all else. Stay calm and try to maintain a positive relationship with your child.

Consider Therapy or Counseling

If allowed, seek family therapy or individual counseling for you and your child to address any underlying issues and work towards healing the parent-child relationship. Engaging a social worker or another mental health professional can be beneficial in these situations.

Follow Court Orders

If the court has mandated specific guidelines for custody and parenting time, make sure to follow them strictly. This will show your commitment to maintaining a healthy relationship with your child and adhering to the court’s directives.

Strategies to Reduce Parental Alienation

Addressing parental alienation involves using different approaches, such as:

  • Engaging in open and non-confrontational communication with the co-parent to address and resolve underlying issues.
  • Actively participate in your child’s life through school activities, sports, and other interests to reinforce your presence and commitment.
  • Seeking the help of family mediators or therapists to provide a neutral ground for working through conflicts and improving co-parenting dynamics.
  • Take the high road. Never discuss the ongoing court situation with your child and instead focus on them and their life.

How Illinois Court Views Parental Alienation

Illinois family courts take parental alienation seriously. The state recognizes the importance of both parents in a child’s life. Judges may order psychological evaluations, appoint a guardian ad litem(“GAL”), or modify custody arrangements if alienation is proven. They aim to ensure that children maintain healthy and meaningful relationships with both parents.

When to Seek Legal Help

Sometimes, despite best efforts, legal intervention becomes necessary. If you suspect parental alienation or face significant custody challenges, consulting a family law attorney can help protect your rights and your child’s well-being. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of family courts and craft a custody order that reflects the child’s best interests.

Take the First Step with Reidy Law Office

At Reidy Law Office, we understand the challenges of dealing with parental alienation and custody issues. Our team is committed to helping you protect your parental rights and ensure the best outcome for you and your child. Reach out to us today to discuss your situation so that we can create a plan to get you back into your kids’ life!