On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in child custody on Thursday, June 18, 2020.
The past few months have been difficult for many families. School and business closures compounded by unemployment have left many Missouri parents feeling extra stress at home. For a parent that struggles with substance abuse, it may be difficult to see how child custody may soon be affected.
Experts that act as advocates for child safety say the last few months have seen a decline in abuse or neglect cases. This may be due, in part, to the fact that many children have been at home with a parent most of the time. Many cases of neglect or abuse are historically reported by a teacher, daycare worker, sports coach or other adult.
Since many of these activities have been unavailable, children have been home with their parents more than ever. A parent struggling with substance abuse may not be aware of the threat he or she poses to a child because things seem to be going fine in the home. As things begin to open back up, authorities expect an influx in child custody cases.
If a non-custodial parent or other relative suspects that a child is in danger due to a parent’s addiction to drugs or alcohol, he or she should not hesitate to take action. An experienced Missouri attorney is standing by to help. An attorney can help an interested party establish, modify or enforce a child custody order. The courts can help find a safe loving place for a child to live while a parent works on personal issues like drug or alcohol abuse.
