Callahan | Barraco
Callahan | Barraco

Solutions As Unique As The Problems They Solve

, Photo of attorneys Irena Inman, David L Callahan, Dahlia Bonzagni and Laurel A Barraco ,

Experienced Parental Alienation Attorney

Last updated on June 21, 2024

Parental alienation is a situation where one parent manipulates or influences their child’s perceptions of the other parent, usually to gain the upper hand in a custody dispute. It can be devastating to both the targeted parent and the child.

The attorneys at Callahan | Barraco help families in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire resolve issues, including parental alienation, making sure that your rights as a parent are not overlooked. Our lawyers leverage more than 100 years of combined legal experience to provide invaluable guidance focused on achieving a resolution that prioritizes your child’s well-being and your rights as a parent.

What Is Parental Alienation Syndrome?

When a parent engages in behaviors that manipulate or undermine the child’s relationship with the other parent, causing emotional estrangement or detachment, it is often referred to as Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS). This undermining may happen in the following ways:

  • Tampering with visitation schedules
  • Making derogatory remarks about the other parent in front of the child
  • Limiting communication between the child and the alienated parent
  • Creating false allegations of abuse against the other parent
  • Encouraging the child to reject the other parent
  • Undermining the authority of the other parent

This family alienation significantly impacts the child’s mental and emotional health, as well as their long-term relationship with both mother and father.

How Do You Prove Parental Alienation?

If you notice signs of parental alienation, such as your child showing sudden hostility toward you or repeating negative comments about you from the other parent, it may indicate parental alienation. Ways of proving alienation include:

  • Document derogatory remarks
  • Record interference with visitation or communication
  • Gather evidence of false allegations
  • Obtain witness testimony
  • Document behavioral changes in your child

A Callahan | Barraco attorney can help you compile and present compelling evidence of parental alienation in court and strategize effective legal actions to protect your parental rights.

Get In Touch Today

If you have concerns about parental alienation affecting your visitation rights, contact us online or call 508-271-7963 to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys.