When you picked up your daughter for your scheduled weekend, she refused to speak to you. She kept repeating that you were “dangerous” and “didn’t love her”—words you never imagined would come out of her mouth. Over time, you began to realize that these ideas were not your daughter’s. They had been planted by her mother. You were facing parental alienation.
Parental alienation takes place when one parent deliberately manipulates a child into rejecting the other parent. Courts in Texas take this seriously, as it can harm the child’s emotional well-being and damage the parent-child bond.
Here are 6 legal remedies for handling parental alienation in Texas.
Reunification Therapy
Courts can order reunification therapy to help restore the relationship between the alienated parent and child. A certified professional will work with the family to address the breakdown in communication and correct harmful narratives.
Change in Custody or Visitation
If the court observes clear signs of a parent working against the other parent, it can intervene and modify the parenting plan. That might mean reducing the amount of time the alienating parent is allowed to spend with the child. In some cases, primary custody could be given to the parent who’s been pushed out, especially if it’s clear the child’s well-being is at risk.
Amicus Attorney or Guardian ad Litem
Sometimes, when parents can’t agree and the case becomes tense, the court brings in a neutral person to focus solely on the child’s best interests. It might be a guardian ad litem or an Amicus Attorney. They’ll usually meet with both parents, possibly speak with the child, and take a closer look at what is going on in the home. Their job isn’t to take sides—it’s to help the judge figure out what’s truly best for the kid. Once they’ve had a chance to dig in, they offer the court guidance on what steps might help ease the conflict or prevent it from worsening.
Being Held in Contempt of Court
When a parent repeatedly ignores the custody order or attempts to turn the child against the other parent, the court can take action. In some cases, the judge may hold that parent in contempt. That can lead to serious consequences—anything from a fine to probation, and in some cases, even jail time.
Mandatory Parenting Classes
The court may require the alienating parent to attend parenting classes. These programs often address the importance of supporting the child’s relationship with the other parent and discourage behaviors that damage that bond.
Supervised Visits
In some situations, a judge may decide that visits should occur with another adult present. This kind of visit helps ensure the child isn’t exposed to harmful comments or pressure during time with the parent who has been causing issues.
Parental alienation can be heartbreaking, but it doesn’t have to go unchecked. Courts in Texas have the authority to step in and help protect a child’s emotional well-being. They also work to keep both parents involved when it’s safe and appropriate.
If you think your child is starting to pull away because of the other parent’s influence, don’t wait too long to act. Reach out to the team at Christman | Daniell Attorneys. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity, compassion, and the legal tools to set things right.
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