What is Parental Alienation in Maryland?

Parental alienation comes in many forms. Generally, parental alienation means that one parent tries to program the child in an effort to undermine or interfere with the child’s relationship with the other parent. Examples include:

• Speaking negatively about the other parent

• Blaming the other parent for the divorce or why the relationship did not work

• Denying the other parent access to the child

• The child begins challenging your decisions and undermining your parental authority

• The child is taking sides and begins to internalize any negative talk from your ex

• The child has too much information about sensitive matters that should be kept between the parents

What Should I Do if My Ex Refuses to Comply with the Custody Order/Agreement?

If you have a custody agreement or order and your co-parent fails to comply with it, you should file a petition for contempt or a petition to enforce the terms of the custody order/agreement right away. Often times, the court will give you the make up time and may even consider awarding attorney’s fees.

If you believe that you have been a victim of parental alienation, our firm can work with you to review the facts and see if court intervention is possible so that the custody and visitation order is enforced. The court will intervene if they deem it is in the best interests of the minor child to do so. Contact us at (443) 741-2567 and we would be happy to discuss your case with you.