Parental alienation is a common issue that can arise in the context of divorce or child custody disputes. It occurs when one parent attempts to turn the child against the other parent, often through negative comments or behaviors. In Arkansas, family law attorneys can be essential in addressing parental alienation and promoting the child’s best interests. Here’s how.

How Family Law Firms Can Help You

If a parent believes that they are a victim of parental alienation, it is important to seek the advice of a family law attorney. 

A family law attorney can help the parent understand their legal rights and options, and can provide guidance on how to address the situation effectively. The attorney can help the parent document instances of parental alienation and can work to protect the parent's relationship with their child through legal means such as filing a motion to modify custody or visitation orders. 

Family law firms can also help the parent navigate the emotional and psychological impact of parental alienation, and may be able to refer them to resources such as family counselors or therapists who can provide additional support.

Let’s dive into how exactly family law firms like Hickey & Hull can help you.

#1: Recognizing the Signs of Parental Alienation

One of the critical roles of family law attorneys in addressing parental alienation is to help their clients recognize the signs of this behavior. This includes — but is not limited to — several signs:

• The child consistently makes negative comments or has an intense dislike towards one of their parents without any apparent justification
• The child may refuse to spend time with the targeted parent or may seem to fear or avoid contact with them
• The child may parrot or repeat negative comments or accusations made by the favored parent about the targeted parent, even if they seem out of character for the child
• The child may have a sense of entitlement or a belief that the targeted parent is not deserving of their love or attention
• The favored parent may restrict communication between the child and the targeted parent or may interfere with visits or phone calls

If these signs are present, it is crucial to seek professional help to address the situation and prevent further damage to the relationship between the child and the targeted parent.

#2: Advocating for Clients in Court

Another vital role of family law attorneys in addressing parental alienation is to advocate for their clients in court. 

In Arkansas, courts must consider the child’s best interests when making custody and visitation decisions. This involves presenting evidence of parental alienation and its impact on the child’s well-being and working to develop parenting plans that promote the child’s relationships with both parents. 

Your attorney will work with you to develop the best strategies for documenting any symptoms of alienation. 

#3: Working with Mental Health Professionals

In some cases, family law attorneys may also work with mental health professionals or other experts to develop a comprehensive plan for addressing parental alienation. 

This could include developing a parenting plan that includes specific guidelines for communication and visitation and working with the child to address any underlying emotional issues contributing to the alienation.

Why Work With Hickey & Hull Law Partners Today

Parental alienation can be a complex and emotionally charged issue. But family law attorneys — like the Hickey & Hull Law Partners team — in Arkansas are essential in addressing this behavior and promoting the child’s best interests. 

Whether through advocacy in court, working with mental health professionals, or developing comprehensive parenting plans, the Hickey & Hull family law attorneys can help families navigate the challenges of parental alienation and work towards positive solutions that promote the long-term well-being of everyone involved.

Fill out our online form today, or call us for a free consultation. Our River Valley office number is 479.434.2414, and our Northwest Arkansas number is 479.802.6560.

No matter what, we’re here for you and your family.