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How to Prepare for a Divorce When Your Spouse Has a Substance Abuse Problem

Aimee Pingenot Key | April 26, 2017

When you are ready to divorce a spouse who has a substance abuse or alcohol abuse problem, you want to be as prepared as possible. One of the first things that you can do is take an assessment of what is actually occurring with your spouse. It is important to document what you’re seeing each day; observe how often they are drinking or using illegal substances. Be as detailed as possible and keep track of where, how much, and the time. You can also take photographs but just make sure you’re taking the time to really write down and keep track of what you’re seeing.

Prior to actually filing a lawsuit and proceeding with attorneys, one of the best things that you can do is really educate yourself on what is occurring in both your spouse’s life and in your life. Having as much education on the issue is important, especially if you have children. Understanding how to manage addiction issues, where they stem from, how you can help your partner, how you can help yourself, and how you can help your children can help you lessen the impact of divorce for everyone.

Remember: you aren’t alone. Look to see what kind of local resources are available to you. Finding counselors, finding support groups, and literature on addiction can help you feel empowered and ready to tackle the road ahead. And if you need assistance finding resources, Goranson Bain Ausley is here to help you along the way.

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A partner in Goranson Bain Ausley, Aimee Pingenot Key is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has been selected to “Best Lawyers in Dallas: Family Law by D Magazine”, 2017, 2019 and 2020, and named to the Texas Super Lawyers Top 100: Texas Super Lawyers, Top 100: Dallas/ Fort Worth Super Lawyers and Top 50: Women Texas Super Lawyers lists, Thomson Reuters, 2017-2019, and has been included in The Best Lawyers in America©.

If you are preparing to divorce a spouse with substance abuse issues, please contact Aimee Pingenot Key to schedule a consultation.