Divorcing an Alcoholic: A Comprehensive Guide

Last Updated on May 25, 2023 by Benson Varghese

Understanding the Complexity of Divorcing an Alcoholic

Divorcing a spouse who struggles with alcoholism is a complex process that requires careful consideration and planning. Alcoholism is a chronic disease characterized by an inability to control or quit drinking despite its negative effects on a person’s life. When one spouse in a marriage is an alcoholic, it can lead to a host of problems, including financial instability, emotional distress, and even physical harm.

In a divorce, these issues become even more pronounced. The alcoholic spouse may be unable to participate fully in the divorce process due to their addiction, leading to delays and complications. They may also be more likely to engage in destructive behaviors, such as hiding assets or becoming confrontational. Furthermore, if children are will need to consider their safety and well-being when making custody and visitation decisions.

Understanding the challenges associated with divorcing an alcoholic is the first step in navigating this difficult process. It’s important to educate yourself about alcoholism and its effects, both on the individual and on their relationships. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions and prepare for potential obstacles. It’s also crucial to seek professional advice from legal and mental health professionals who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Recognizing the Signs of Alcoholism

Recognizing the signs of alcoholism is crucial when considering divorce. Alcoholism is a progressive disease, meaning it tends to worsen over time. Early recognition can lead to earlier intervention, potentially preventing some of the more severe consequences of the disease.

Common signs of alcoholism:

Frequent intoxication

This is often the most obvious sign. If your spouse is regularly drunk or spends a lot of time recovering from drinking, they may have a problem.

Neglect of responsibilities

Alcoholics often struggle to keep up with their responsibilities, both at home and at work. This can lead to job loss, financial problems, and neglect of household duties.

Changes in behavior

Alcoholism can cause significant changes in a person’s behavior. This can include increased aggression, mood swings, and a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.

Physical symptoms

Over time, heavy drinking can lead to a range of physical health problems, including liver disease, heart problems, and an increased risk of cancer.

If you notice these signs in your spouse, it’s important to seek professional help. There are many resources available for people dealing with alcoholism, including therapists, support groups, and treatment programs. Remember, alcoholism is a disease, and like any disease, it requires appropriate treatment.

the impact of alcoholism on the family

The Impact of Alcoholism on the Family

Alcoholism doesn’t just affect the individual struggling with the disease; it impacts the entire family. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of a parent’s alcoholism. They may experience a range of emotional and psychological issues, including feelings of guilt, anxiety, and fear. They may also be more likely to develop alcohol problems themselves later in life.

In addition to the emotional impact, alcoholism can also lead to practical problems for the family. These can include financial instability, due to the alcoholic’s inability to hold down a job or their tendency to spend money on alcohol. It can also lead to legal issues, particularly if the alcoholic gets into trouble with the law.

Recognizing the impact of alcoholism on the family is crucial when considering divorce. It’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your children, both during the divorce process and afterward. This may involve seeking a restraining order, arranging for supervised visitation, or seeking full custody of your children.

Legal Considerations When Divorcing an Alcoholic

In Texas, as in many states, alcoholism can have a significant impact on the outcome of a divorce case. The court’s primary concern is always the best interests of the children, and if one parent is an alcoholic, this can seriously affect their ability to provide a safe and stable environment for the children.

When determining custody and visitation rights, the court will consider a variety of factors, including each parent’s physical and mental health, their ability to provide for the children’s needs, and the children’s own wishes. If your spouse’s alcoholism has led to neglect or abuse, this will be taken very seriously by the court.

In addition to child custody, alcoholism can also affect other aspects of the divorce settlement. For example, if your spouse’s alcoholism has led to financial instability, you may be entitled to a larger share of the marital assets or increased spousal support.

In addition to child custody, alcoholism can also affect other aspects of the divorce settlement. For example, if your spouse’s alcoholism has led to financial instability, you may be entitled to a larger share of the marital assets or increased spousal support.

Gathering Evidence of Alcohol Abuse

If you’re divorcing an alcoholic, it’s crucial to gather evidence of alcohol abuse. This evidence can be used to support your case in court, particularly when it comes to issues like child custody and spousal support.

Evidence of alcohol abuse can take many forms. It might include photographs or videos of your spouse drinking excessively, medical records documenting their alcohol-related health problems, or police reports if they’ve been arrested for drunk driving or other alcohol-related offenses. Witnesses can also provide valuable evidence. For example, friends, family members, or neighbors might be willing to testify about your spouse’s drinking habits.

However, gathering this kind of evidence can be challenging, particularly if your spouse is secretive about their drinking. In some cases, you might need to hire a private investigator to gather the necessary evidence. An experienced divorce attorney can provide guidance on this issue.

Protecting Your Children During the Divorce Process

The safety and well-being of your children should be your top priority during the divorce process. If your spouse’s alcoholism poses a risk to your children, it’s essential to take steps to protect them.

One option might be to seek a temporary protective order, which can limit your spouse’s contact with the children until the court can make a final decision on custody and visitation. In some cases, the court might order supervised visitation, meaning your spouse can only visit with the children under the supervision of a third party.

In addition to these legal protections, it’s also important to provide emotional support for your children during this difficult time. Make sure they understand that the divorce is not their fault, and that both parents still love them. Consider seeking the help of a therapist or counselor who specializes in helping children cope with divorce.

Seeking Support and Resources

Dealing with a spouse’s alcoholism can be emotionally draining. It’s important to seek support for yourself and your children during this challenging time. This can include counseling, support groups, and educational resources on addiction.

There are many organizations that offer resources for families dealing with alcoholism. These include Al-Anon, a support group for friends and family members of alcoholics, and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, which offers a wealth of information on alcoholism and recovery.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to navigate this difficult situation alone. Reach out to friends, family members, and professionals for support.

Preparing for the Financial Impact of Divorce

Divorce can bring significant financial changes. If your spouse’s alcoholism has led to financial instability, it’s crucial to prepare for the potential economic impact of divorce. This may involve creating a new budget, securing employment, or seeking spousal support.

During the divorce process, you’ll need to take stock of your financial situation. This includes understanding your income, expenses, assets, and debts. You’ll also need to consider how your financial situation might change after the divorce. For example, you might need to find a new place to live, or you might need to return to work if you’ve been a stay-at-home parent.

An experienced divorce attorney can help you understand your financial rights and options. They can also help you negotiate a fair divorce settlement that takes into account your spouse’s alcoholism and its impact on your financial situation.

Moving Forward After Divorcing an Alcoholic

Life after divorce can be a time of healing and growth. It’s important to focus on self-care, establish healthy boundaries, and seek help when needed. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and take time for yourself.

After the divorce, you may find yourself dealing with a range of emotions. You might feel relief, sadness, anger, or confusion. These feelings are normal, and it’s important to allow yourself to experience them. Consider seeking the help of a therapist or counselor to help you navigate these emotions and start the healing process.

Establishing a routine can also be helpful. This can provide a sense of stability and normalcy for both you and your children. Try to maintain regular meal times, bedtimes, and other daily activities. This can provide a sense of security and predictability during a time of change.

It’s also important to establish healthy boundaries with your ex-spouse. This might mean limiting contact to only necessary communication about the children, or it might mean setting rules about when and how your ex-spouse can visit with the children. An experienced attorney can help you establish and enforce these boundaries.

Finally, remember to take care of yourself. This might mean taking time each day to relax and do something you enjoy, eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise, or spending time with supportive friends and family. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially during challenging times.

Contacting Our Skilled Divorce Attorney

If you’re considering divorcing an alcoholic, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. At Varghese Summersett, our experienced family law attorneys can guide you through the divorce process and help protect your interests. We understand the unique challenges of divorcing an alcoholic, and we’re committed to providing compassionate, effective representation.

We can help you understand your legal rights and options, gather evidence of your spouse’s alcohol abuse, negotiate a fair divorce settlement, and advocate for you in court. We can also provide referrals to other professionals, such as therapists and financial advisors, who can provide additional support.

Don’t try to navigate this difficult process alone. Call us today at (817) 900-3220 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help.

Benson Varghese
Benson Varghese
Benson Varghese is the founder of Varghese Summersett PLLC. He has tried over 100 cases to juries in Texas. Benson is also a legal tech founder, a prolific writer, and a frequent speaker. He is regularly consulted on matters where there is an overlap between family law and criminal law.

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Nicole Carroll

Nicole Carroll | Senior Counsel

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