A very common denominator in high conflict divorce are Cluster B personality disorders, usually undiagnosed. The most common ones are Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Antisocial Personality Disorder. Hallmarks of these disorders are lack of empathy, and lack of respect for rules, laws and personal boundaries. There are often co-existing issues such as substance abuse, other mental disorders, and criminal activity.

These individuals have a perfect forum in family court to display their prowess for manipulation and lies. Their game is to hurt the healthy parent as much as possible, avoid all financial obligations to their children, and win at all costs. They wear a mask into court claiming to be a loving parent devoted to their child’s welfare. Their abusive actions speak differently.

The antidote to this is to demonstrate to the court their true colours. This is done with careful documentation and evidence of the inconsistency between what they say and what they actually do.