Parental Alienation
You’re doing everything possible to be a steady presence in your child’s life, but something has changed. Your child’s attitude toward you has shifted seemingly overnight. They may be distant, angry, or even accusing you of things that never happened. You suspect the other parent is behind it. If this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with parental alienation.
This situation can leave parents feeling powerless. But under Colorado law, you do have options. Understanding what parental alienation is, how to identify it, and how to take action through the court system can make all the difference in protecting your relationship with your child.
What Is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation occurs when one parent uses psychological tactics to damage or destroy the child’s relationship with the other parent. The alienating parent may manipulate the child’s feelings, exaggerate negative traits, or even make false claims about the other parent’s behavior.
While not officially recognized as a mental disorder in medical manuals, Colorado courts are increasingly aware of the real and harmful impact this behavior can have on a child. Common examples include:
- Repeatedly telling a child the other parent doesn’t love them or want them;
- Blaming the other parent for the family’s separation in front of the child;
- Encouraging a child to refuse visitation or communication with the other parent;
- Making the child feel guilty for enjoying time with the other parent;
- Withholding important information about school or medical appointments; and
- Allowing or encouraging the child to call a stepparent “Mom” or “Dad.”
These behaviors can severely damage the child’s emotional well-being and, ultimately, their relationship with both parents.
Why Courts Take It Seriously
Courts operate under the guiding principle of the child’s best interests. When a parent’s behavior interferes with a child’s emotional health or distorts their relationship with the other parent, it becomes a legal issue of coercive control.
Judges may view parental alienation as a form of emotional abuse. If proven, it could result in serious consequences for the alienating parent, including:
- Modifications to custody or parenting time,
- Court-ordered reunification therapy,
- Contempt of court findings,
- Supervised parenting time, or
- Restricted decision-making rights.
In extreme cases, the court may consider changing primary custody if one parent actively works against the child’s best interests by alienating the other parent.
How to Prove Parental Alienation
Proving parental alienation in court is challenging but possible. Allegations alone won’t be enough, as judges need credible evidence to act. Fortunately, there are several ways to build a persuasive case.
Here are common types of evidence that may help:
- Text messages or emails—show patterns of one parent undermining the other or violating court orders;
- Witness testimony—teachers, therapists, or relatives may have observed concerning behavior or changes in the child;
- Therapist or counselor records—professional insight into the child’s sudden emotional or behavioral changes;
- Parenting time logs—tracking missed visits or refusal to comply with court-ordered parenting time; and
- Recorded interactions—when legally obtained, audio or video evidence can reveal manipulation or disparaging remarks.
Proving these behaviors takes time and strategy. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can help you organize the evidence and present your case clearly and effectively.
Can a Parent Lose Custody for Parental Alienation?
Yes, a parent can lose custody for parental alienation, but only if the court finds that doing so is in the best interests of the child. Colorado courts are cautious when it comes to modifying custody arrangements, especially if they involve switching primary custody from one parent to another.
If the alienating behavior is persistent, harmful, and well-documented, the court may step in to protect the child. Colorado law allows for custody modifications when a parent’s actions significantly impair a child’s emotional development.
How to Win a Parental Alienation Case in Court
Winning a parental alienation case in court requires careful preparation and a strategic legal approach. The burden of proof falls on the parent bringing the claim, and the court will need a clear connection between the other parent’s behavior and harm to the child. To strengthen your case:
- Document everything—keep detailed records of parenting time, interactions with the other parent, and your child’s behavior;
- Follow the court order—even when it’s hard, comply with all parenting time and communication rules;
- Don’t retaliate—avoid engaging in similar behavior or speaking negatively about the other parent;
- Get professional support—therapy for your child or family counseling can provide proactive steps; and
- Work with an experienced attorney—to help gather and present the evidence the court needs to see.
These cases are emotional and complex. It is essential to stay focused on the legal process and your child’s long-term well-being.
Parental Alienation Laws in Colorado
There is no standalone statute titled parental alienation laws, but Colorado’s family law statutes provide several legal tools to address alienating behavior. These include:
- Best interests standard. Judges are required to consider the child’s emotional and psychological well-being when making custody decisions.
- Contempt proceedings. A parent who refuses to comply with court orders can be held in contempt.
- Modification of parenting time. The court may alter parenting arrangements to protect the child.
- Therapeutic interventions. Courts can require therapy or counseling to repair the parent-child relationship.
These legal tools give courts the flexibility to respond to alienating behavior and protect the child’s emotional well-being.
What Makes Plog & Stein P.C. the Right Team for Complex Custody Issues?
With over two decades of dedicated family law practice, Plog & Stein P.C. has established a strong reputation in the Denver metro area for assertive, informed, and strategic legal representation. Our attorneys focus exclusively on family law and possess decades of combined litigation experience.
We don’t just talk; we act. Whether navigating a complex custody modification, gathering evidence to prove alienation, or representing clients in emotionally charged hearings, we work relentlessly to advocate for the best possible outcome. Our legal team understands the stakes. We’re here to guide you through difficult decisions and help you protect what matters most.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Relationship with Your Child?
If you’re experiencing signs of parental alienation, don’t wait to take action. These situations rarely improve without intervention, and the longer it goes on, the harder it can be to repair your bond with your child.
Whether you need help gathering evidence, filing a motion, or navigating custody modification, our team is ready to help.
