Time-sharing arrangements for Florida parents are sometimes relatively even. Other times, one parent may have substantially more overall parenting time than the other. If one parent struggles with a substance abuse disorder, that could have a profound impact on the overall allocation of parenting time.
Children exposed to parental substance abuse are more likely to struggle with addiction as adults. They may also end up neglected while in a parent’s care due to their intoxication. Documentation is often necessary to support allegations of concerning substance abuse during family court proceedings.
What types of evidence can help?
People who routinely abuse controlled substances often leave a paper trail. Otherwise unexplained cash withdrawals from a marital banking account or regular charges at liquor stores or bars could help prove that one parent regularly purchases alcohol or illicit substances.
In some cases, substance abuse might lead to interactions with law enforcement professionals. There may be arrest records or police reports from incidents that did not result in criminal prosecution. Medical records could also help support allegations of one parent habitually consuming alcohol or drugs. Witness statements from those who interact with an inebriated parent could also help substantiate claims of dangerous substance abuse.
If there is sufficient evidence to convince a judge that there are substance abuse issues, a judge may agree to limit one adult’s time-sharing for the protection of the children in the family. Parents who want what is best for their children sometimes have to take uncomfortable steps while negotiating a parenting plan for the family.
If a parent with a substance abuse disorder does not agree that they need support and cannot properly care for their children, then the other parent may have the option of asking the courts to intervene for the protection of their children. Preparing properly for time-sharing hearings can help parents act in the best interests of their children.