FAQ – What Happens If My Ex Bad-Mouths Me to Our Children in a Texas Divorce?
Q: Can bad-mouthing or negative talk about me affect my Texas custody or divorce case?
A: Yes, it can. Texas family courts consider each parent’s willingness to foster a positive relationship between the children and the other parent. When one parent speaks badly about the other—especially in front of the kids—it can be seen as emotional manipulation or parental alienation, both of which can influence custody decisions.
Judges expect parents to act in their children’s best interests, and constant negative talk undermines that principle. If this behavior is documented, it could lead to a change in custody, visitation, or communication orders.
What Texas Courts Consider Parental Alienation
“Parental alienation” happens when one parent tries to turn a child against the other parent through blame, insults, or emotional pressure. Texas courts may:
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Order counseling or co-parenting classes
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Modify custody (conservatorship) to protect the child’s emotional well-being
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Restrict communication between the parents if the behavior continues
Documented evidence—such as text messages, emails, or witness accounts—helps demonstrate ongoing alienation or emotional harm.
How Negative Talk Impacts Custody and Visitation
Judges look at patterns of behavior, not isolated comments. If your ex consistently tells your children negative things about you, refuses to communicate respectfully, or discourages visitation, the court may find that they’re not acting in the child’s best interests under Texas Family Code § 153.001.
The result could include:
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Adjusted visitation schedules
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Supervised exchanges
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Changes in primary custody
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Mandatory parenting programs
Protecting Yourself and Your Children
If your ex is bad-mouthing you or trying to alienate your children:
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Stay calm and avoid reacting in front of the kids.
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Document the behavior—keep records, screenshots, or notes of incidents.
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Use court-approved communication apps like OurFamilyWizard to reduce conflict.
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Talk to your attorney about modifying custody or asking for court intervention.
At The Ashmore Law Firm, our Dallas family lawyers help parents protect their relationships with their children and take swift legal action against harmful behavior.
Encouraging Healthy Co-Parenting
Texas courts value cooperation. Showing that you support your child’s relationship with their other parent strengthens your credibility and demonstrates that you prioritize your children’s emotional stability over personal conflict.
Learn More About:
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Parental alienation and co-parenting laws in Texas
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Custody modifications based on harmful behavior
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Emotional well-being and best-interest standards under Texas Family Code § 153.001
Authority: Texas Family Code & Gary Ashmore Super Lawyer in Family Law | Dallas, TX
