Shared custody arrangements are common when parents separate or divorce. However, there are some situations that make shared custody a risk for the children in the family.
One parent may struggle to meet the children’s needs or may have a history of violent conduct. Substance abuse issues can also impact parental capabilities and child safety.
If a parent facing divorce knows that their spouse struggles with substance abuse, they may want to gather documentation in advance to ensure that custody arrangements are safe for the children. What evidence can convince the courts to consider a parent’s substance abuse during custody hearings?
Police and medical records
The best documentation of substance abuse comes from trusted, authoritative professionals. Police reports related to impaired driving or possession offenses could help support claims of a substance abuse disorder. Medical records of an individual seeking treatment while impaired or due to injuries they sustained while under the influence can also serve as verification of an individual’s history.
Financial records
Substance abuse is often quite expensive. One parent may regularly spend money at bars or liquor stores. They may also make regular cash withdrawals to purchase illicit substances. Records of how much a person spends on drugs or alcohol can help support claims of substance abuse.
Personal documents
Journals that include details about a spouse’s behavior can help validate claims of habitual impairment. Details including the time, date and location of an encounter and information about how a spouse behaved while under the influence and convince the courts that their behavior could endanger the children.
Protecting children from an addicted parent can be a challenging process. Parents preparing for custody litigation benefit from having experienced legal guidance develop an effective strategy.