How A DUI Can Impact Your Divorce

Divorces are complicated. Add legal issues to the mix and things get even more complex. Florida residents get DUI charges all the time, even though drinking and driving is clearly illegal. They may not even think much about it until they realize how a DUI charge affects the outcome of their divorce.

A person can be charged with a DUI when their blood alcohol or breath alcohol level is at .08 or above. DUI charges are messy on their own. They can result in fines, jail time, license loss, community service, and other penalties. But when a DUI occurs in the middle of a divorce, it makes things even more complicated. Here are some ways in which a DUI can impact your divorce.

Loss of Driving Privileges

Not being able to drive is a major issue in a lot of ways. You may not be able to get to work. You cannot drive to court appointments, so you will need to find alternate transportation. If you have children, having visitation with them can prove difficult as well.

Child Custody

If you have children, getting a DUI on your record is definitely not a good look when it comes to obtaining child custody. Those who get DUIs are seen as substance abusers and if your child was with you when you got the DUI, you could even be seen as a child abuser. Your spouse will have the advantage in this situation and they could fight to limit your visitation and take away your custody rights altogether.

Financial Issues

A DUI can be costly in many ways. The fines may exceed $1,000. You’ll also lose income by having to take time off work to attend court hearings. You may also have to pay for a criminal defense attorney on top of a divorce lawyer. Not to mention you’ll likely pay increased insurance costs for several years after the DUI conviction as well.

Extra Stress

A divorce is stressful enough. If you’re dealing with a DUI charge at the same time, you’re bound to reach your limit. You’ll likely experience negative changes to your mental and physical health. Immense stress can influence your life in many ways, causing strains on relationships and finances. This added stress can impact your divorce proceedings or make it hard to focus on work or other important matters. Stress can also make you feel physically ill, impacting eating and sleeping habits. You’ll need to find healthy ways to reduce stress.

Seek Legal Help

People often do crazy things while in the midst of a divorce. Sometimes they may get into legal trouble like a DUI and make their divorce even more complicated.

Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can help you deal with the most complicated aspects of divorce. Get the help you need today. Call 954-764-4330 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.

Source:

flhsmv.gov/driver-licenses-id-cards/education-courses/dui-and-iid/florida-dui-administrative-suspension-laws/#:~:text=Under%20Florida%20law%2C%20Driving%20Under,08%20or%20above