Chicago Parental Alienation Attorney

When a relationship between parents ends, the path forward can be challenging. For some, the conflict extends beyond the parents and begins to negatively influence a child’s relationship with one parent. This damaging dynamic is often referred to as parental alienation. It is a serious issue that can have a lasting, detrimental impact on both the child and the targeted parent.

At WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, we understand the profound distress and confusion that parental alienation causes. We are committed to providing Chicago-area parents with the compassionate legal support and guidance needed to address this complex situation and protect their most important relationships.

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation occurs when one parent engages in a pattern of behavior that is designed to damage or sever the child’s relationship with the other parent. This is not simply a case of a child preferring one parent over another; it is a deliberate and often subtle campaign of manipulation. The alienating behavior can disrupt the natural bonds of love and respect between a child and a parent, causing significant emotional harm.

Parental Alienation and Its Impact on Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time

Parental alienation tactics often involve creating barriers for the targeted parent to spend time with their child. This can include manipulation of parenting time schedules, false accusations against the parent, or even denying them access to their child altogether. As a result, the targeted parent may miss out on important moments in their child’s life and be unable to fulfill their parenting duties fully.

Moreover, when children are exposed to this type of behavior, it can have long-lasting negative effects on their emotional well-being and relationship with the targeted parent.

Legal Support for a Complex Issue

Illinois courts prioritize the best interests of the child, which includes fostering a healthy relationship with both parents. Parental alienation directly undermines this principle. If you believe you are a target of parental alienation, it is important to seek legal counsel to understand your rights and options.

The attorneys at WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, have the experience necessary to handle these sensitive cases. We work to:

• Gather Evidence: We will guide you on how to document instances of alienating behavior, which is essential for building a strong case.
• Modify Court Orders: We can petition the court to modify your allocation judgment, which covers parenting time and decision-making responsibilities, to protect your relationship with your child.
• Seek Court Intervention: In serious cases, we can request court-ordered therapeutic intervention, the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent the child’s interests, or changes to the parenting time schedule.

How WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC Can Help

You do not have to face this challenge alone. WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, provides dedicated and knowledgeable representation to parents in Chicago dealing with parental alienation. We will help you navigate the legal process from start to finish, ensuring you are personally guided through every step. We understand the emotional toll these situations take and will work to protect your parental rights and your child’s well-being.

If you are concerned about parental alienation, contact WARD FAMILY LAW, LLC, today to schedule a consultation.