When substance abuse is present in a marriage, it can have dire consequences for both the individuals involved and their children. Substance abuse can often lead to divorce in Maryland, as it can create an unhealthy and unsafe environment for everyone involved. In this article, we will explore how substance abuse affects a Maryland divorce and what steps individuals can take to protect their rights and interests.
Substance Abuse and Grounds for Divorce
Under Maryland law, divorce can be granted on a variety of grounds, one of which is substance abuse. If a spouse has a pattern of substance abuse, and the other spouse can prove it, they can use it as a ground for divorce. However, it is not enough to simply allege a pattern of substance abuse; there must be convincing evidence to prove it.
The Impact of Substance Abuse on Child Custody
When substance abuse is present in a marriage with children, it can have a significant impact on child custody decisions. The welfare of the children is always the priority, and if one parent’s substance abuse is affecting their ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children, it can impact their custody rights.
In Maryland, courts will consider a variety of factors when making child custody decisions, including the ability of each parent to provide a stable and safe environment for the children and their ability to meet the children’s needs. If a parent’s substance abuse is deemed to interfere with their ability to meet these requirements, they could face limitations or even lose their custody rights entirely.
Division of Property and Assets
Substance abuse can also impact the division of property and assets in a Maryland divorce. If one spouse’s substance abuse has led to financial issues, such as a loss of employment or the squandering of marital assets, it can impact the overall distribution of marital property.
Courts will consider several factors when dividing property and assets in a divorce, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contribution to the marital property, and the financial needs and resources of each spouse. If one spouse’s substance abuse has led to significant financial issues, it could impact their share of the marital property.
Seeking Help for Substance Abuse
If substance abuse is present in a marriage, it is essential to seek help and support as soon as possible. Not only can substance abuse lead to divorce and other legal consequences, but it can also have severe health and emotional consequences for the individuals involved.
Individuals struggling with substance abuse should seek professional help, such as counseling or addiction treatment. It is also essential to seek legal advice to understand how it could impact a Maryland divorce and to protect their rights and interests.
Conclusion
Substance abuse can have a severe impact on a Maryland divorce, from impacting grounds for divorce and the division of property to affecting child custody decisions. If you are facing a Maryland divorce that involves substance abuse, it is essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible. An experienced divorce attorney can help you understand your rights and options and protect your interests and those of your children. Additionally, seeking professional help for substance abuse is critical for both your health and legal matters.