How North Carolina Courts Handle Parental Alienation in Custody Cases
If you’re a parent, you want nothing more than to protect and support your children – especially during a difficult divorce. While some parents can work together to prioritize their children’s well-being, others struggle to move past resentment or anger. In some cases, one parent may intentionally try to damage the child’s relationship with the other parent. This behavior is known as parental alienation, and it can have lasting emotional and legal consequences.
This guide will explain what parental alienation in North Carolina custody cases looks like, how courts view it, and what steps you can take to protect your parental rights.
What Is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation occurs when one parent intentionally tries to turn a child against the other parent. It may begin subtly – with small comments or manipulative behaviors – or it may be obvious and persistent from the start.
Common signs of parental alienation include:
- Making negative or exaggerated comments about the other parent.
- Convincing the child that the other parent doesn’t love or care about them.
- Claiming the other parent is unsafe, neglectful, or “the reason for the divorce.”
- Discouraging or sabotaging visitation or phone calls.
- Asking the child to “spy” or report back on the other parent.
These actions can deeply harm a child’s emotional health and damage their relationship with both parents.
Some common beliefs that one parent may intentionally get their child to believe are as follows:
- The other parent doesn’t love them as much as they do.
- The other parent blames the child/children for the divorce.
- The other parent isn’t able to keep the child/children safe and secure.
- The other parent has replaced the child/children with a new child or spouse.
- The other parent to longer loves the child/children nor wants them around.
- The child/children should spy on the other parent while they are visitng to provide information to the alienating parent.
Obviously, all of these feelings are harmful to the child’s well-being, and no parent should ever make their child feel this way. Unfortunately, it’s a reality that families and courts across the country have to deal with.
How North Carolina Courts View Parental Alienation
North Carolina courts take parental alienation in custody cases very seriously. Judges understand that alienation can disrupt a child’s emotional development and unfairly influence their relationship with a parent.
When reviewing claims of alienation, courts may look for evidence such as:
Repeated Negative Comments
Occasional frustration or a slip of the tongue is normal during divorce. However, a consistent pattern of criticism or manipulation – especially in front of the children – can signal intentional alienation.
False Allegations of Neglect or Abuse
Some parents may make unfounded claims of abuse or neglect to damage the other parent’s reputation or restrict visitation. The court will look for evidence and consistency in these allegations.
Interfering with Visitation
Sometimes, parents who seek to alienate the other parent will try to prevent or undermine visitation in several ways. Refusing to follow the custody schedule, creating “scheduling conflicts,” or making a child feel guilty about seeing the other parent are common red flags. The ultimate goal is to create distance between the children and the other parent. These tactics can lead the court to reconsider custody arrangements.
These are only a few examples of behaviors that parents who seek to alienate children commonly engage in. If you believe that this situation is occurring, you should know that you have rights under the law. Courts do not look positively on parental alienation in any way. If you can prove that it is occurring, you may be able to have your custody arrangement modified.
What to Do If Your Ex Is Alienating Your Child
If you believe that your ex-spouse is attempting to alienate your children, you should know that you do have rights under the law, and you should take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your children quickly and thoughtfully. Here are some key things steps to take:
Consult a North Carolina Family Law Attorney
An experienced attorney can evaluate your situation, explain your legal options, and help you take action through the courts if needed. Trying to resolve severe alienation directly with your ex is often ineffective and emotionally draining.
Document Everything
Keep detailed notes of incidents that seem like alienation — such as missed visitations, concerning statements from your child, or messages from your ex. Save texts, emails, and any communication that supports your case.
Protect Your Relationship With Your Child
Continue showing love, patience, and consistency. Even small, positive interactions can help your child feel secure and maintain a sense of normalcy during a difficult time.
Parental alienation can be emotionally devastating, but you do not have to face it alone. With legal support and a clear strategy, you can protect both your parental rights and your child’s well-being.
The Law Office of Dustin McCrary – Here for You
At the Law Office of Dustin McCrary, we understand that divorce is more than just a legal process – it’s a life-changing experience that affects your entire family. If you’re experiencing parental alienation in a North Carolina custody case, our team is here to help.
We focus exclusively on North Carolina family law and have helped many parents navigate custody disputes, protect their relationships with their children, and move forward toward a better future.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today. We’re here to listen, guide, and advocate for you every step of the way.