False Allegations, Custody Battles, and Protecting Children: A Conversation with Rael Lapenta - Ep 43

In Episode 43 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston welcome Rael Lapenta, a behavior and sensory consultant from Pennsylvania and a dedicated advocate with the Interference with Child Custody Coalition. Over a classic Lemon Drop Martini, the discussion dives into one of the hardest—and increasingly common—issues in family law: false allegations in custody disputes and the long-lasting trauma they create for both parents and children.

From Special Education to Advocacy

Rael began her career as a special education teacher before transitioning into behavior consulting, helping children with sensory processing challenges. Her personal connection to autism through her niece inspired her career, but her advocacy expanded when she encountered the devastating impact of custodial interference and false allegations in her own life.

Through her work with the Interference with Child Custody Coalition, Rael now helps parents nationwide understand their rights, navigate state laws, and push for accountability when custody orders are violated. The coalition has grown to more than 13,000 followers, with state-specific resources for all 50 states.

The Weaponization of False Allegations

False claims of abuse or neglect are becoming a disturbingly common tactic in custody battles. Rael and the Egglestons discuss how allegations—though often disproven—can cause immediate and severe consequences, including temporary loss of visitation, costly investigations, and permanent damage to the parent-child relationship.

Bryan highlights that while courts must take allegations seriously, the lack of consequences for proven false claims creates a dangerous loophole. Even with laws on the books (like Texas’s “day-for-day” makeup time for denied possession), enforcement is inconsistent, forcing attorneys to fight uphill battles to apply statutes that should be automatic.

The Hidden Costs: Trauma for Children

Perhaps the most sobering part of the conversation is the impact on children. When kids are told one parent is “dangerous” or are separated for weeks or months during investigations, the emotional scars can last a lifetime. Rael explains that children subjected to repeated false allegations often live in constant fear—jumping at doorbells, distrusting authority figures, and struggling with long-term attachment issues.

Despite this, child protective agencies often fail to acknowledge the psychological harm caused by false reports. “It’s not tricky,” Rael insists. “Experts know what emotional abuse looks like. The problem is, no one’s documenting it.”

Workshops & Advocacy: Fighting Back

To combat misinformation and empower parents, Rael leads a False Allegations Workshop Series through the coalition. The sessions break down the different legal paths (criminal, civil, and dependency), help accused parents respond effectively, and provide emotional support for those traumatized by the process.

Her advice for parents facing false claims? Stay calm, document everything, and gather evidence quickly. As Bryan echoes, “The person who controls the chaos controls the case.” Remaining factual and strategic—even when falsely accused of horrific acts—is critical to surviving both the legal and emotional toll.

The Takeaway

Episode 43 sheds light on a growing crisis in family law: the misuse of false allegations as a litigation strategy. Rael Lapenta’s advocacy reminds us that while protecting children from genuine harm is paramount, the system must also recognize and address the profound damage caused when accusations are weaponized.