In the midst of a divorce, particularly when child custody is involved, concerns about a co-parent’s alcohol use can add complexity to an already stressful situation. One option to address these concerns is the use of alcohol monitoring devices, which can provide peace of mind regarding a parent’s sobriety during their time with the children.
What Is an Alcohol Monitoring Device?
Alcohol monitoring devices, commonly handheld breathalyzers, are used to test and track a parent’s alcohol consumption. In custody cases, these devices may be required before, during, and after parenting time if there are concerns about a parent’s drinking habits.
If you suspect that your co-parent’s alcohol use is affecting their ability to parent, it is crucial to discuss the option of alcohol monitoring with your attorney. They can guide you through the steps necessary to request a monitoring device and help determine if it is the best course of action in your case.
Considerations When Requesting Alcohol Monitoring
Cost: Alcohol monitoring devices come with financial costs. Most services charge a monthly fee for use and tracking of the results. Additionally, some services require you to purchase testing equipment. There may be discussions or disagreements about who will bear the financial responsibility for these services. It’s important to consider these costs and how they may impact your family’s financial situation.
Scheduling: When requesting alcohol monitoring, clear guidelines should be established regarding how often and when testing will take place. For example, setting specific times for your co-parent to test—such as before, during, and after their parenting time—can help avoid confusion and ensure consistency.
Alternatives to Alcohol Monitoring
In some cases, alcohol monitoring may not be the only solution. Other methods to ensure the safety of your children during custody arrangements could include:
· Drug Testing: If there are concerns about illegal substance use, drug testing can provide clarity on whether your co-parent is using drugs.
· Substance Abuse Evaluations: A licensed mental health professional can conduct a thorough evaluation of a co-parent’s substance use, offering further insight into their habits and whether they pose a risk to the children.
Take the Next Step
If you are in the process of a divorce and are concerned about your co-parent’s alcohol use, it’s important to act quickly. Your Koenig|Dunne attorneys can discuss with you about the potential benefits of alcohol monitoring and other measures to protect your children. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation, where we can discuss your rights, options, and the best strategies to move forward.
Angela Lennon