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ToggleIf you currently face drunk driving charges, it is critical to thoroughly understand the different ways that this case could affect your life. For example, you could face challenges with respect to your driving privileges, financial penalties and time behind bars. In addition, a drunk driving case could have a detrimental impact on many other facets of your life, such as your career opportunities, your reputation and even your relationship with your kids.
If you are considering divorce, currently find yourself in the middle of a custody dispute with your child’s other parent or worry about your custody rights, it is critical to understand how a DUI can influence court decisions regarding custody.
Drunk driving and custody rights
According to Maricopa County’s website, the court could come to the conclusion that a parent convicted of a felony DUI is unfit to have custody rights, depending on the nature of the offense. However, if a parent can prove that they have completed treatment and have no felony convictions in the previous five years, they could have the ability to secure custody rights.
Dealing with drunk driving charges and custody issues
As if drunk driving cases do not generate enough stress already, concerns about child custody can make this situation even more unbearable. If you find yourself in a bitter dispute with your ex over child custody and you have a DUI, they could try to use this against you in the courtroom. This highlights the importance of addressing drunk driving charges properly and doing everything you can to secure a more favorable end result in court.
Author Bio

Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
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Practice areas
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Tempe
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Lake Havasu City
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Apache Junction
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Parker