This is the first post in a series of articles discussing the issue of whether a Melbourne, Florida parent can lose custody for drug use. Given the prevalence of substance abuse in our communities today, I believe the information in this series is of critical importance. Illegal drug use is an issue that the courts take very seriously, with potential consequences including supervised visitation or a complete loss of custody. The goal of this series is to discuss the impact of drug use and its implications on child custody cases in our area. If you are in need of assistance then contact my office to discuss the specific circumstances of your case with a lawyer.
This series will address the following topics:
- Why Courts will change custody due to drug use
- Requesting to change child custody in such circumstances
- The need to take immediate action if drugs are involved
- What to expect from the legal process
- How a parent with drug issues can regain visitation in the future
I am addressing these particular topics for a number of reasons. First, a Judge’s sole concern will always be for the best interest of the child. For obvious reasons, a parent with addiction issues is not likely to be seen as serving these interests. Second, understanding the process involved in filing for a change of custody, as well as the need to do so immediately, is important to getting one’s case moving as quickly as possible. Third, knowing what to expect from the process is important to having reasonable expectations. Finally, parents can regain visitation after establishing with the Court that they are clean.
We know how personal child custody cases are and treat them accordingly. Not only are such matters complex in and of themselves, when involving drug use they have an additional layer of complexity best addressed with the help of an attorney. Take the necessary steps to ensure your rights are protected by contacting my Melbourne office today. We also serve the cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.