Getting a DUI and its Effects on Divorce and Custody

It is extremely complicated and stressful to get divorced, but it can be even worse when you are charged with a DUI during the process. You should seek assistance from an experienced DUI lawyer to help guide you through this difficult time. This short guide can help you understand what the consequences of a DUI are in relation to a pending divorce procedure.

1. Costly Legal Fees for Two Cases

If you are facing a divorce simultaneously with a DUI charge, you may have added stress and financial burden as well. A first time DUI can cost up to $2,000 in fines, court fees, and probation monitoring and can raise even more when you factor in out-of-pocket costs. If there was any property damage or you hurt someone, you can expect insurance rates to skyrocket and possibly another case of personal injury if the person you hurt decides to sue.

2. Lost Wages or Loss of Employment

You may lose days of work because of your appearances for both cases. You may lose your job if you go to jail for your DUI charge. Unfortunately, if you pay child support, you may miss payments and will have your wages garnished if you don’t go to jail. Your ability to function at work and in the day-to-day will spill over into the rest of your life due to the financial stress.

3. If You are in a Custody Battle, Your DUI May Affect the Outcome

The court is always going to rule in favor of what they feel is best for the children involved. If you are convicted of a DUI and your children were in the vehicle, you may be considered abusive by the court and may lose custody of your children. Even if your children weren’t present, the court may still question your judgement. This might be enough for your ex spouse to earn full custody.

4. Possible License Suspension

If you keep your custody arrangement, you may find that it will be difficult to get to work, spend time with the children or take them to school or appointments. This can hurt your ability to pay child support if driving is a necessity for your job, and you may lose it i you can’t get there every day. A court will consider your license suspension and it may affect the determination of your parental rights.

In addition to the four prior complications, you will likely be sentenced to probation for alcohol-related offenses. Probation lengths can vary, but it is common for you to do community service, attend alcohol classes and possibly go to a few Alcoholic Anonymous meetings. These obligations will surely affect time with your children and it is possible that you may not be allowed to see them until you complete court orders.

It is in your best interest to seek legal help from an experienced DUI lawyer and family law attorney as well to discuss your options when faced with a DUI and divorce proceedings. Do not wait, get the support you need from a trusted professional and carve the best path you can to move forward. Contact family lawyers Phoenix AZ as soon as possible to make sure you are taking all proper necessary steps.

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Thank you Hildebrand Law for providing tips on the relationship between a DUI and its effects on Divorce and Custody.