Wheaton Lawyer for Psychological and Addiction Issues in Divorce

DuPage County Divorce Lawyers for Mental Illness and Addiction Issues in Divorce

Couples get divorced for all sorts of reasons. Some get married young and simply grow apart over time. Others are driven apart by infidelity or other destructive behaviors. In some marriages, however, mental illness and addiction can cause the relationship to break down beyond repair. Psychological and addiction issues are difficult to manage under the best of circumstances, but when they are factors in a divorce, the situation must be handled with extreme caution.

At Goostree Law Group, our lawyers have more than 80 years of combined family law experience. We have been helping clients throughout the region for over 15 years, and our compassionate team understands the sensitive nature of divorces involving psychological issues and addiction. Our attorneys are honest, straightforward, and responsive to the problems that can arise quickly in such situations. If you are considering a divorce from a spouse with substance abuse problems or a mental illness, we will provide the skilled guidance and responsible representation you need.

Protecting Yourself

When your partner is dealing with a mental illness or an addiction, you are likely to be suffering too. Mental illness and addiction can lead to unpredictable behavior, which may include domestic violence or abuse. In many cases, individuals feel obligated to stay in a marriage with a mentally ill or addicted spouse, even if that spouse refuses to get help or otherwise manage their condition. Sometimes, however, ending the marriage is the best option for everyone involved.

At Goostree Law Group, we understand that it can be difficult to tell a mentally ill or addicted spouse that you want a divorce. It is impossible to know how your spouse will respond. Our lawyers will help you review your situation and develop a strategy for your divorce that will keep you and your children safe. We can assist you in securing orders of protection or restraining orders to protect you, your children, and your rights throughout the process.

Psychological Issues and Parental Responsibilities

When the court makes decisions regarding parental responsibilities (child custody) and parenting time (visitation), your child's best interests are the top priority. In most cases where psychological issue and addiction are concerns, parents are required to undergo a psychological evaluation so the court can develop a clear understanding of the risks involved before any rulings are issued. Depending on the nature and severity of your spouse's mental illness or addiction, his or her parental rights and parenting time may be affected. For example, if your spouse is heavily addicted to narcotics, the court could refuse to grant any parenting time until he or she completes a drug rehabilitation program.

Our skilled attorneys realize that psychological and addiction issues are often ongoing problems. This means that even if a reasonable solution is reached during your divorce, the situation could change dramatically—and quickly—in the future. For example, if your ex-spouse seeks help or gets clean in the years following your divorce, he or she may be able to seek a modification to the divorce judgment so that he or she can spend more time with your child. Conversely, a relapse or a worsening of the condition could force you to take additional action to protect your child.

Call 630-364-4046 Today

If your spouse suffers from psychological issues or has substance abuse problems, contact our office before filing for divorce. Our compassionate lawyers will help you keep yourself and your children safe. Call 630-364-4046 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today. We serve clients throughout DuPage County, including the communities of Wheaton, Downers Grove, Aurora, Lisle, Woodridge, and Warrenville.