Addiction can negatively impact a person’s life in many ways.
Not only are they affected, but the other people in their lives also suffer from the repercussions of drug or alcohol abuse. If you have children, you can agree that your child’s health and safety sit high on your list of priorities. Unfortunately, many people get caught up in addiction, putting their relationship with their children at risk. In these situations, child custody and substance abuse go hand in hand.
At our addiction rehab in Pompano, we know that drug charges and child custody are a horrible combination that can cause heartbreak for the person and their loved ones. However, receiving treatment can help you and your family avoid these problems.
Drug Use and Child Custody
Especially if your spouse is experiencing drug or alcohol abuse problems, you may worry about leaving your children in their care. The effects of substance abuse can cause a person to act out in ways they normally wouldn’t. Although this doesn’t mean that every person with addiction would hurt their children, the effects of drugs and alcohol aren’t always predictable. Over time, the chemical makeup of the person’s brain changes, and their attitude towards others may change as well. If they don’t receive addiction treatment, they may find themselves fighting to keep custody of their kids. The dangers these situations pose can cause a concerned parent or guardian to combine child custody and substance abuse to keep their children safe.
Allegations
Substance abuse can cause relationship problems and child custody battles. When someone discovers their spouse’s addiction, they may take action to ensure the safety of their children. When someone accuses a parent or guardian of drug or alcohol abuse, the courts will investigate to confirm whether the allegations are true. In most states, both parents will be asked to take a drug test. The results will then determine the direction courts will take. If legal action is necessary, then factors like child custody, child support, and visitation rights are discussed. During these trials, the court’s main focus is the child’s safety. Having an addiction can easily result in a loss of custody rights and prevent you from seeing your child.
Investigating Child Custody and Substance Abuse During Divorce
If your ex-spouse accuses you of drug or alcohol abuse during your divorce, it can have a huge impact on child custody and child support. If the court decides that the parent’s addiction prevents them from caring for the child or puts the child at risk, then the judge may deny child custody. Some judges may grant joint custody if the parent is receiving treatment.
At Banyan Pompano, we offer an intensive outpatient program that helps individuals with a drug or alcohol abuse problem recover and get their lives back.
How Addiction Treatment Can Help
One of the most heartbreaking results of drug abuse and child custody is the stress children often experience in these situations. Luckily, if the parent receives addiction treatment, stays sober, and proves to the court that they’re able to care for their children, child custody rights may be modified. This can allow them to reconnect with their kids and make amends for any hurt they may have caused.
The effects of addiction can take their toll on everyone involved. Especially if you’re a parent, any form of substance abuse can cost you custody of your children. Although you may have a chance to regain these rights after you’ve become sober, the process can be a timely and difficult one. During your treatment, your loved ones can take advantage of the support we offer in our family program to help them heal from the hurt they may feel.
If you or a loved one is caught in addiction, call Banyan Treatment Centers Pompano today at 888-966-9413 to find out more about our treatments and programs.
