7 Tips for Divorcing a Spouse Who Has an Addiction in Illinois

 Posted on May 07, 2020 in Illinois Divorce

Some people have a tendency to become addicted to certain substances or activities. This can include alcohol, drugs, gambling, or pornography. Addictions to these things can often lead to the demise of a marriage. In many cases, controlled substances can change the addicted spouse’s personality and make him or her physically and emotionally abusive to his or her partner or child. In other situations, a spouse may dissipate assets to sustain his or her gambling problem. If you are considering filing for divorce and your spouse has an addiction, it is important to take certain precautions in order to protect your best interests as well as your child’s during the proceedings

Preparation Is Key

Deciding to legally end your marriage takes courage, but it also requires careful planning if your spouse has an addiction. Preparation is key to make the process as smooth as possible, even if your spouse tries to contest the divorce. Here are a few ways to mitigate the stress of divorcing an addict: 

1. File for an order of protection if you feel like you or your child is in immediate danger. 
2. Save text, voice, or email messages that show your spouse’s harmful behaviors.
3. Take photos of any damaged property caused by alcohol- or drug-induced incidents. 
4. Change your passwords for email, social media, phone accounts. 
5. Remove your spouse from your joint credit card, bank, or retirement accounts.
6. Move valuable items such as jewelry or family heirlooms to a safety deposit box.
7. Confide in people you trust or a therapist. 

If a court decides that it is not in your child’s best interest to spend time with his or her other parent, you will probably be allocated the majority of the parental responsibilities. This may also mean that you receive the marital home as part of the property division to maintain some sense of stability for your child.

The money to fund an addiction can exceed thousands of dollars, if not more in some cases. A knowledgeable divorce lawyer can ensure that you receive what is rightfully yours, even if your spouse squandered the marital funds

Contact a Kane County Divorce Attorney

Going through a divorce can be a daunting process, but when one spouse has an addiction, it can further complicate matters. Weiler & Associates, Inc. has guided thousands of clients through the divorce process, even contentious ones. You can count on us to safeguard your rights and your future security by achieving settlements that allow you to move on with the next chapter of your life. Our distinguished St. Charles family lawyers are well-versed in Illinois divorce laws. Call us today at 630-331-9110 to schedule your confidential consultation.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=2086&ChapterID=59