You know that your divorce will impact your family in many different ways, including the amount of time you are able to spend with your child. This is why one of your primary goals is to preserve that relationship you have through an equitable custody order. As a Mississippi parent, you have specific parental rights, but certain factors may impact how and when you are able to be with your child. One of these factors is a drunk driving conviction.
Even one DUI can have a detrimental impact on your child custody case. The consequences of this event can affect the terms of your final order, even years later. If you have one or multiple DUIs on your record, it will be in your interests to know how you can still fight for your custody rights. While it can be a complicated and difficult process, there are steps you can take that may allow you to preserve the relationship you have with your children.
Factors that affect child custody decisions
The primary concern of any family court will be to preserve the best interests of the children above all else. One of the reasons that a DUI, even a past conviction, could affect your custody rights is due to the fact that a criminal conviction may raise concerns over your ability to provide a safe environment for your child. A judge may also view this type of event as an indication of poor judgment, but this does not mean that you will lose the right to have an active role in the lives of your children.
The specific details of your arrest and conviction could be important. For example, if the conviction took place years before and you have maintained a clean record since then, the court may not view your conviction as a reflection of your character. It will be critical to have experienced help as you present your case and seek the preservation of your custody rights.
Your relationship with your children
There is much at stake during a child custody case. If you believe a past DUI conviction could affect your custody and visitation order, you will benefit from seeking an understanding of your legal options and how you can fight for your parental rights. As a parent, nothing is more important than your children and protecting their best interests.
