Substance abuse is a big problem in many divorces. When one person struggles with addiction, it can cause emotional pain and money problems. Courts take this issue seriously, especially when kids are involved. Drug or alcohol addiction can change decisions about child custody, money, and support payments.
Child custody and visitation rights
Substance abuse can make it harder for a parent to get custody of their children. Courts want to keep kids safe. If a parent’s addiction puts the child in danger, the court may limit their time together. Sometimes, a parent can only visit their child while someone else supervises. The court might also require addiction treatment before allowing full custody. Judges look at medical records, arrest reports, and witness statements to decide what is best for the child.
Money and dividing property
Addiction can cause serious money problems, which can affect how property is split in a divorce. If one spouse spent a lot of money on drugs, alcohol, or gambling, the court might adjust the settlement to make things fair. In Florida, judges may consider substance abuse when dividing property, but they follow equitable distribution laws. If one spouse’s addiction led to financial waste, such as excessive spending on drugs or alcohol, the court may award a larger share of assets to the other spouse to ensure fairness.
Spousal support and financial help
Substance abuse can change how much financial support a person gets after divorce. If addiction led to the breakup or made money problems worse, the court might lower or take away alimony. But if addiction left a spouse unable to work, they may still get temporary financial help while they recover.
People dealing with substance abuse in a divorce should collect important records, like police reports and medical documents, to show in court. Knowing how the legal system works can help when handling addiction-related problems. Courts focus on fairness and protecting children, so proving how substance abuse has affected the marriage is very important.