This is the next post in our series on the handling of Little Rock child custody cases which involve drug use by a parent. Our last article discussed how marijuana use can impact a child custody matter. It is important for parents to realize that using marijuana, even when it is prescribed, can adversely impact the amount of time they get to spend with their child. If you have questions then it is best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. In this article we will explain how the use of methamphetamine, heroin, or other “hard drugs” will impact a custody case. If you are in need of assistance then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
Arkansas Family Court Judges will typically have little to no patience for parents who use hard drugs. The use of such substances are seen as making someone unable to effectively care for a child. If a parent files a Motion to change child custody, and alleges the use of these drugs, then the Court will often hold an immediate hearing, typically within a few days of the time at which the Motion is filed. The accused parent will typically be required to take an immediate drug test and, if the results are positive, they can expect for their visitation to be supervised going forward. Such supervision will likely remain in place until the offending parent can show that they have been drug free for a prolonged period of time and that they have complied with any other requirements which the Court imposed.
Parents must understand that the use of hard drugs often creates a lasting change in their child custody situation. If, for example, parents shared joint custody and one then tested positive for heroin, then the other parent would likely retain primary custody after any requirements of supervision have been lifted. In other words, the use of harder drugs can damage their legal case in a lasting manner.
If you or a loved one are concerned that a child’s parent is using drugs, then it is important to speak with a Little Rock child custody lawyer as soon as possible. Our attorneys take a team-based approach to problem solving and they pride themselves on providing the highest levels of service. Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff and throughout the rest of Arkansas.