Divorce is a challenging process, especially when children are involved. Both parents may want custody over their child(ren) to continue bonding. When you and your ex-partner cannot reach a legal agreement for child custody, the judge will decide for you. In Colorado, substance abuse can severely impact child custody cases, specifically when it endangers the child. Continue reading to explore the impact of substance abuse on child custody cases.
Drug Abuse Allegations
Substance abuse is a serious allegation that you should never make on a whim. False allegations in Court can reflect poorly on the accuser. If you believe or know your ex abuses substances, you can submit a motion to the Court to request that the other parent undergo a drug test or undergo monitoring for alcohol abuse.
Evidence of substance abuse could come from the parent’s behavior, third-party accounts, or other tangible evidence supporting the claim. Never make drug abuse allegations without any proof. Likewise, before making any allegations, talk with your family law custody attorney about it. They can help determine whether you have reasonable cause to file a claim of substance abuse against the other party.
The Impact on Parenting Time
Family courts in Colorado typically encourage shared custody and want both parents to be a part of the child’s life. However, if the accused parent agrees to take the drug test and it shows they abuse substances—alcohol, marijuana, or prescription drugs—it can negatively impact their custody case. This is especially true if the parent’s substance abuse endangers the children’s safety. Again, the Court’s primary concern is always to promote and protect children’s best interests in custody cases.
A Court could also order a substance abuse evaluation for the party or appoint a child and family investigator (or CFI) to further investigate the accusations and whether the child is safe. The CFI will interview the parents and third parties, conduct a home visit, and review any test results for current or past substance abuse monitoring. A Court will apply the best-interest-of-the-child standard in making decisions regarding the child.
Supervised Visitation
Sometimes, the judge grants supervised visitation to the parent misusing a substance. This depends on several external factors and whether the parent can otherwise provide a safe place for their kids. Additionally, a parent seeking treatment is more likely to be approved for supervised visitation.
Supervised visitation means that the parent can spend limited and supervised time with their children. The supervisor is usually a trained professional or a neutral third party who remains present throughout the visit. Supervised visits allow the parent and child to bond without putting the latter in danger.
The Impact of Accepting Treatment
In Colorado, family courts find it admirable when a parent genuinely tries to address their substance abuse problems. Seeking treatment and rehabilitation shows a willingness to put the child’s well-being first and address the root cause of the problem.
Hire an Attorney
Substance abuse in child custody cases is a sensitive issue that can significantly affect the outcome for both parents. Understanding its implications can help you navigate your case more effectively. Consulting an attorney early in the divorce process can greatly enhance your ability to achieve your legal goals. With over 20 years of experience, Jones Law Firm, PC, is dedicated to helping clients meet their objectives. Contact us today or call us at 720-513-5983 to have the best legal team on your side.
