The breakup of a family is traumatic and confusing. In spite of the fact that a relationship between the adults has ended, parents often work together to ensure that each is entitled to nurture his or her relationship with the children. There are times when Texas parents struggling with child custody may have legitimate concerns over the well-being of their children.
One family law advocate expressed concerns over the prevalence of parental alienation claims, especially in complicated custody disputes. Though traditionally, mothers usually prevailed in custody disputes, evidence points to fathers being more successful in winning custody rights when they raise the issue of alienation. More importantly, fathers are purportedly more likely to be awarded custody in spite of abuse allegations if there are also claims of alienation.
One attorney expressed concerns that some judges permit unsupported evidence of alienation to be presented in court. On the other hand, according to this viewpoint, evidence of abuse get dismissed if there is evidence that the accusing parent is attempting to damage the relationship between a child and accused parent. One state is working to change laws that will require courts to consider all evidence when assessing whether a child may be at risk in a shared custody arrangement.
Parental Alienation Syndrome was first identified in the 1980s and describes the efforts of one parent to engender feelings of contempt or hatred on the part of a child against the other parent. Sadly, parental alienation is often a serious problem that can severely damage parent-child relationships. However, in other cases, allegations of alienation may have led to children being ordered to spend time with a potentially abusive parent. Texas parents who find themselves in a child custody battle may feel overwhelmed and worried about the welfare of their child. They usually benefit by consulting with an attorney who can help them pursue a result that protects their interests while also focusing on the child’s well-being.