In Kansas, the emotional landscape of family law often presents complex challenges, particularly when children are caught in the crossfire of parental disputes. Among the most insidious issues that can arise is parental alienation, a dynamic where one parent undermines a child’s relationship with the other parent. While not a standalone legal cause of action in Kansas, parental alienation is a critical factor that can significantly influence custody, parenting time, and other orders in a divorce or paternity case, as Kansas courts are always guided by the paramount principle of the "best interests of the child" (K.S.A. 23-3203). Understanding Parental Alienation in Kansas Family Law Parental alienation occurs when one parent, often referred to as the "alienating parent," engages in behaviors designed to damage or destroy the child's bond with the "targeted parent." This manipulation can manifest in various forms, leading the child to reject the tar...
Practical Legal Guide with Expert Advice