If you are facing a child custody case, there’s a lot riding on it, which means you’re likely under considerable stress. If you have a DUI conviction on your record, the stakes are that much higher, and you’re very likely concerned about how it will affect the outcome of your case. Fortunately, an experienced Chicago child custody attorney can help you better understand how your case is likely to be resolved, how to protect your rights throughout, and what you can do to help mitigate the fact of your DUI.Â
When Illinois courts are called upon to make decisions regarding child custody, they always defer to the best interests of the children involved, but they have considerable discretion in the matter. This means that while your DUI could play a significant role in the outcome of your case, it may not – generally depending on the circumstances involved and how they are interpreted by the court. The better you are able to distance your DUI from your abilities as a parent, the less likely it is to affect your parenting time schedule and parental responsibilities.Â
If you’re going through a divorce and you are hit with a DUI, it could directly affect the outcome of your child custody arrangements – depending upon the court’s determination on the matter. Your DUI, however, can have an effect on your child custody arrangements even if the court has already issued orders that have already been implemented. For example, if your ex goes after a child custody modification in response to your conviction for DUI, the court will likely take the DUI into careful consideration.
The circumstances of your DUI will play a role in how seriously it affects your child custody arrangements – or if it affects them at all. For example, if the DUI was your first, it was brought on by the stress of your divorce, you were not responsible for your children at the time, and you are seeking the help you need to take care of the underlying issue – such as going through treatment or getting counseling – the effect it has on the outcome of your child custody case may be minimal. Circumstances like the following, however, can exacerbate the problem:
If you’re concerned about how a DUI charge or conviction could affect your child custody case, the savvy Chicago child custody attorneys at Andrea Heckman Law have the focus and legal insight to help. Your parental rights are paramount, so please don’t put off reaching out and contacting us for more information about what we can do to help you today.
Walked in just for consultation, and in less than 45 days, my case was closed! Thanks to attorney Andrea Heckman, with all her passion and professional manner! Couldn’t be happier! Thank you so much for everything! Great attorney for all family needs! Thank you.
From the moment I walked in as a client to the end when everything was complete, I was very pleased with attorney Andrea Heckman, her knowledge, and professionalism! Her whole staff was always helpful. I would use them again if needed and refer them to everyone I know! Thank you.
Andrea Heckman has been my attorney helping/guiding/advocating for my children and I regarding my custody situation. We are in the process of working towards a more equal parenting schedule, and I have faith in her efforts and expertise to accomplish this.
I have used this office since 2018 and have nothing but excellent things to say. Andrea Heckman handled my divorce with no faults. Andrea is currently handling my child custody case and has been on top of everything! Andrea Heckman is an unstoppable force, and I would recommend her to anyone!
I could not ask for a better attorney to represent me during my case which is Andrea Heckman. Anytime I had any questions, I got a response in a timely manner. Andrea walked me through a very difficult time which was a divorce/child custody case. Andrea is very knowledgeable and motivating. The staff has been nothing but welcoming and professional. If I have to go to court for anything, I will definitely be giving this firm a call again.
Heckman Law is handling my divorce/custody. Andrea is very professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. She will take the time to answer and explain any questions you may have. She usually responds within a few hours. Honest about possible outcomes, whether it’s good or bad news. My ex doesn’t want to negotiate or cooperate with anything. Andrea is willing to fight in the courtroom for you. The case is ongoing.
I was represented by Andrea Heckman, and if it wasn’t for her, I would have been so lost. She guided me through my difficult situation. Some lawyers are about money. I knew that Andrea cared about me and my situation.
Ms. Heckman is a great lawyer. She helped me get time with my daughter when my ex was being nasty and refusing to let me see my baby. I thank her for all her hard work.
Ms. Heckman managed our parents’ will and advanced care planning documents expeditiously, skillfully, and with compassion during a stressful situation. We referred her to a family member for divorce with child custody issues, and she was pleased enough to refer her to 2 others for divorce services. A true professional.
Please contact our law office in Rolling Meadows for legal assistance with divorce, child custody, or visitation issues. We serve clients in the Chicago metropolitan area who need the help of an experienced and dedicated family law attorney.