Parental Alienation: What It Means and How Family Law Solicitors Can Help

When families separate it can be stressful all around, with the kids sometimes getting stuck in the middle of conflicts between their parents. A serious issue that can come up during separation is called parental alienation. 

This occurs when one parent tries to turn their child against the other parent by using negative tactics and manipulation. If you're experiencing this very difficult situation, talking to a Family Law Solicitor can really help support you through it.

What Exactly Is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent purposely damages their child's relationship with the other parent. This usually involves making the child think negatively of the other parent without good reason.

In Australia, this kind of behaviour is recognised as harmful to kids because it can affect their emotional and psychological well-being.

Signs that your child might be experiencing parental alienation include:

  • Always taking one parent's side, no matter what.

  • Criticising the other parent without clear or logical reasons.

  • Using grown-up language to describe problems with the other parent.

  • Forgetting or denying good memories of the targeted parent.

  • Showing no guilt about treating the targeted parent badly.

  • Automatically siding with one parent during conflicts.

How Does Australian Law Handle Parental Alienation?

The main law in Australia that covers these issues is called the Family Law Act 1975. This law states that children should have meaningful relationships with both parents unless there's a good reason not to.

While the law doesn't use the exact words "parental alienation," courts clearly understand the behaviour and see it as harmful.

Australian courts focus on:

  • The child's right to relationships with both parents.

  • Protecting children from emotional and psychological harm.

  • Encouraging parents to help their child maintain relationships with the other parent.

How Family Law Solicitors Can Help?

A qualified family law solicitor can play a key role in supporting families as they deal with parental alienation. Here’s how they can help:

Early Detection and Recording

Experienced family solicitors know how to spot signs of parental alienation early. They can advise you on documenting behaviour such as:

  • Missed or sabotaged visits

  • Negative comments about you to your child

  • Blocked communication

  • Sudden changes in your child's behaviour towards you

Simply search for “family solicitor in Sydney” to find a family lawyer in your area.

Legal Actions and Applications

A Child Custody Lawyer or family solicitor can help you apply for:

  • Parenting orders that clearly state visitation and communication rules.

  • Enforcement of existing parenting orders.

  • Family therapy or special programs to help fix relationships.

  • Changing care arrangements in serious cases.

Gathering Proof and Building Your Case

To prove parental alienation, you'll need strong evidence. A solicitor or child custody lawyer can assist you by:

  • Getting reports from psychologists or family specialists.

  • Collecting statements from people who have witnessed alienating behaviours.

  • Compiling evidence showing the impact on your child.

Guiding You Through Family Court

Your family law solicitor will help you navigate the family court system, including:

  • Attending Family Dispute Resolution meetings (mediation).

  • Preparing and filing court documents.

  • Representing you during hearings.

  • Requesting court interventions to protect your child’s well-being.

Helping with Therapy and Practical Solutions

Family law solicitors know legal solutions aren’t enough by themselves. They often recommend:

  • Therapists who specialise in helping families deal with parental alienation.

  • Child psychologists can support your child emotionally.

  • Parenting coordinators will manage ongoing issues.

  • Programs are specifically designed to rebuild family bonds.

Finding the Right Help

When dealing with parental alienation, it’s important to find:

  • A family law solicitor experienced in parental alienation cases.

  • Professionals who focus on your child's best interests.

  • Solicitors who have strong links with helpful support services.

  • Someone familiar with the Australian family law system.

Search for the term “Family Solicitors Near Me” to find the best legal help in your area. 

Conclusion

Dealing with parental alienation can most certainly be tough, but it’s possible to heal relationships with the right support. The family law system in Australia prioritises children’s rights to have good relationships with both parents. 

A good family solicitor or child custody lawyer can help protect your child's rights and help support your relationship with them.

If you suspect parental alienation in your family, speaking to a specialised family law solicitor as soon as possible is the best first step towards a positive solution.

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