Are false allegations of sexual abuse common in divorce?

A divorce and child custody situation can be full of emotions and anger. This can lead to false allegations of sexual abuse.

Whether it is your spouse saying you abused him or her or that you abused your child, it will cause issues in your divorce. According to Psychiatric Times, false allegations occur often in these situations.

Complications

When the other parent is making the allegations, they will usually involve the child and coach him or her into substantiating the claims. It can be difficult, especially with young children, to get to the truth. If the judge is unable to see concrete proof that the allegation is not true, it will have a devastating effect on your rights as a parent.

Proving your innocence

Unfortunately, this is not a criminal situation, so you will have to prove you are innocent and the allegations are false. It may seem like an uphill battle to do so. Hopefully, the judge will issue orders for psychological testing and interviews that can uncover the truth. Professionals who understand this type of situation will know they need to get to the bottom of the motivating factor behind the allegations.

Usually, the parent instigating the situation has fears about what will happen with the custody of the child or simply want the child all to himself or herself. In some cases, the other parent wants to punish you.

False sexual abuse allegations are very damaging. Not only will they hurt you and your ability to see your child but also they will hurt your child. Uncovering why the other parent is taking this action is your best bet to proving the allegations are untrue.