A large percentage of the population consumes alcohol on a regular basis. Alcohol consumption in small and moderate amounts is widely accepted in our society, and when it is consumed in a responsible way, it is not seen as something that inhibits our ability to be good and loving parents.
While this is true, it is also common for divorcing spouses or ex-partners to accuse the other parent of abusing alcohol. They often do this in order to provide an argument of why the other parent may not be a good parent worthy of child custody. While their intentions may be good, the entire situation must be weighed up by the child custody courts in order for a fair decision to be made.
If you have been accused of abusing alcohol as a custody-seeking parent in the state of Texas, it is important to understand how this accusation could affect your custody rights, and how you should best respond in this situation.
Alcohol consumption does not need to be abusive
There is a difference between responsible alcohol consumption and alcohol abuse, however, the line can be subjective and blurred. Alcohol is not an illegal substance. When child custody courts assess the alcohol consumption behaviors of a parent, they look for ways that the alcohol consumption could possibly affect the child or children in question.
The best interests of the child
In the state of Texas, child custody courts want to make a ruling based on what is considered to be in the best interests of the child. Children benefit greatly by having good relationships with both of their biological parents. As long as the alcohol consumption is not considered to have negative effects on the child, it will likely not be considered to be problematic from a child custody perspective.
It is only when alcohol is affecting parenting abilities that it becomes a problem. If alcohol is leading to abuse or neglect, the parent will likely lose custody.
If you believe that you are a competent parent and you want to ensure that you have custody of your child in Texas, it is important that you take action right away.