Divorcing a Spouse with an Opioid Addiction 

 Posted on October 26, 2022 in Divorce

According to a recent report, nearly 75,000 individuals in Illinois suffer from Opioid Use Disorder. Drug addiction involving opioids like oxycodone, morphine, heroin, and fentanyl can absolutely devastate a person's life. These substances are so powerful that they often consume an individual's entire world, leading to financial instability, criminal activity, and the breakdown of the family unit.

If you are divorcing a spouse with opioid addiction, you are not alone. Many individuals in Illinois find themselves in this difficult situation. The person you are divorcing may bear little resemblance to the person you married. If your spouse is like many suffering from substance abuse, addiction may have changed him or her dramatically. Consequently, protecting yourself and your finances is paramount during the divorce process. 

Temporary Orders During Divorce Involving an Addict 

The divorce process can take months or even years to complete. You may want to consider getting temporary orders to ensure your physical safety and protect your financial assets while the divorce is ongoing. 

In Illinois, temporary relief orders may be used to:

• Assign legal custody of your child 
• Give you exclusive possession of the marital home
• Require your spouse to pay child support
• Prohibit an abusive spouse from contacting you or coming to your home
• Prevent your spouse from selling marital property, draining bank accounts, or taking on new b2ap3_thumbnail_shutterstock_1234681048-min.jpgdebt

Default Divorce for Missing Spouses 

Some drug addicts go completely off-grid and cannot be located which prevents a spouse from serving divorce papers. Others simply refuse to show up for hearings and appointments or otherwise participate in the divorce. Illinois Courts offer an option referred to as "default divorce" when a spouse refuses to participate in the divorce process or cannot be located. In a default divorce, the Court grants the divorce without input from the missing spouse. 

A Strong Support System is Essential When Divorcing Someone with a Drug Addiction 

If your spouse is addicted to heroin, fentanyl, prescription pain medication, or other substances, the importance of a strong support system during divorce cannot be overstated. You need a divorce lawyer who will work closely with you to protect your interests and advocate on your behalf. Make sure you choose a lawyer with ample experience handling divorce cases involving drug addiction. 

Additionally, make sure you have the emotional support you need during this difficult time. Friends and family can be a great source of comfort. You may also want to consider joining a support group for individuals going through a divorce or seeing a mental health professional who can guide you through the psychological implications of divorcing an addict. 

Contact an Arlington Heights Divorce Lawyer 

If your spouse is addicted to opioids, you need an experienced, compassionate divorce attorney at your side. Contact Palatine divorce attorney Nicholas W. Richardson today to learn how he can help you. Call the Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. at 847.873.6741 to set up a free consultation.

Sources:

https://news.wttw.com/2022/07/29/illinois-use-760m-opioid-settlements-fund-treatment-prevention-programs-pritzker