There are many legitimate reasons why one parent might want to restrict the parenting time or authority of the other. Substance abuse issues can also affect parental capabilities and expose children to either abusive behavior or neglect.
Parents concerned about alcohol or drug use on the part of a co-parent may need assistance as they prepare for custody negotiations. They must present an effective case to protect their children.
Documentation is key to success
A judge must establish custody arrangements that focus on the best interests of the children. Most of the time, that process leads to an arrangement where each parent has a substantial amount of time with the children. However, when there is proof of problematic circumstances, a judge might agree that one parent should not have unsupervised time with the children or an even share of custody.
Establishing that a co-parent has a substance abuse disorder requires careful preparation. Financial and medical records could prove the amount of money spent on drugs or alcohol or the medical consequences of substance abuse.
Witness statements, video from prior incidents and other evidence can also help validate claims that one parent struggles with their consumption of mind-altering substances and may present a risk of harm to the children as a result. Having adequate evidence is critical for those seeking sole custody or other atypical arrangements, such as supervised visitation.
Having adequate evidence is critical for those seeking child custody terms that restrict another parent’s access to their children. Those concerned about addiction may need to discuss the issue with a lawyer before they make claims in family court, and that’s okay.