If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), you may wonder if a conviction will impact your child custody rights. Will you lose possession of your children? Will it limit the time you spend with them?
Your concerns are well-founded as a DUI conviction may affect your custody rights. However, it all comes down to the unique aspects of your situation. Here is how a DUI conviction can impact child custody.
It may raise safety concerns
Courts prioritize the safety of the children when deciding custody cases. A DUI conviction suggests a potential risk to the child’s safety, especially if the parent has a history of alcohol abuse or reckless behavior.
Parenting time restrictions
A DUI conviction could result in limitations on parenting time, such as supervised visitation or restrictions on driving with the child. These restrictions aim to ensure the child’s well-being while maintaining the parent-child relationship. You could even be cut off from the children if necessary.
It may raise doubts about your ability to parent
Being found guilty may raise concerns about your judgment and responsibility. This can impact your credibility in court as the judge may question your ability to make sound decisions and discharge your parental duties.
It’s worth noting that the court may consider your efforts to address alcohol abuse, such as attending counseling or completing a rehabilitation program. Demonstrating rehabilitation efforts can positively influence custody decisions.
Seeking legal guidance is crucial if you are facing a DUI charge and are concerned about the impact it may have on your custody rights. It can help you understand your options for mitigating the potential impact of a conviction and increasing your chances of a desirable verdict.