Going through a divorce can be challenging for anyone. Even if you are happy with ending your marriage, you may have some concerns about your relationship with your kids. This is especially true if your soon-to-be ex-spouse intends to fight for sole custody.
Your husband or wife should not damage your parent-child relationships. If he or she takes steps to turn the kids against you, you may be the victim of parental alienation. In Georgia, parental alienation may affect the outcome of any custody matter.
What constitutes parental alienation?
Many child psychologists and psychiatrists view parental alienation as a form of psychological child abuse. If your spouse does any of the following, you may have evidence of parental alienation:
- Tells your children they should not trust or obey you
- Gives your kids incorrect information about you
- Asks your children to disinvite you from normal parent-child activities
- Undercuts your parental authority
- Demands your kids spy on you
How does parental alienation affect child custody?
While Georgia law is silent on parental alienation, judges in the Peach State must make custody determinations according to what is in the best interests of your kids. Generally, kids thrive when both parents play an active and loving role in their lives. Because parental alienation runs counter to these notions, you may be able to convince a judge to create a legal order that stops it in its tracks.
Successfully using evidence of parental alienation to your advantage may depend on how you present your case. Ultimately, documenting your spouse’s alienating behaviors may be the most effective way to safeguard the good relationships you have with your children.
