Here’s what you need to know.
If you’re considering divorce because your spouse is abusing alcohol, you’re probably feeling:
“This is already hard enough. How do I even begin to handle this — legally and safely?”
Good news: you are not alone in this, and you do have real options.
Alcohol abuse complicates divorce cases, especially when children are involved.
But the courts in New Jersey do consider the impact of alcohol abuse when making child custody and parenting decisions.
That means your concerns are valid — and actionable.
But before you take any steps, let’s slow down for just a moment.
Just because you can file for divorce immediately doesn’t mean you should do it without a clear plan.
Every move you make right now could impact:
Your finances
Your children’s safety
Your future security
Many people make serious mistakes early on.
Let’s make sure you’re not one of them.
Alcohol abuse will play a big role in your case — especially with child custody and parenting time.
The court looks closely at:
Evidence of alcohol-related neglect
Safety risks for children
Ability to provide a stable home environment
This is why it’s crucial to document everything.
Keep a clear record of:
Verbal or physical abuse
Neglectful behavior
Any incidents that jeopardize your children’s well-being
Professional support can also be a game-changer:
Consider counseling or support groups for yourself.
A forensic psychologist can help expose patterns of denial from your spouse (“I’m not an alcoholic! She’s the crazy one!”)
Documentation and professional support together will give you the strongest foundation possible.
Some people read an article like this and move on.
The smarter ones get real help.
I created Steve Kaplan’s Divorce Course so that people like you can:
Get immediate clarity
Protect your children and assets
Avoid costly mistakes
Stay completely private (use any email you like, no name required)
👇 Enter your email address on the form on this page to start the course right now.
✅ How to protect your children from your alcoholic spouse
✅ How to safeguard your finances
✅ How to avoid critical early mistakes
✅ Step-by-step guidance, at your own pace
You’ll get short, clear lessons in your inbox — not legal jargon.
If you decide to stop the course, you can unsubscribe anytime with one click.
But most people stay because the material is that helpful.
“I didn’t even know where to begin. My husband’s drinking had taken over our lives, and I was scared for my kids. Steve’s course helped me understand exactly what to document and how to protect myself legally. I finally feel like I have a plan.”
— S.R., Middletown
“For years, I felt trapped. I thought the court wouldn’t believe me about my wife’s drinking. Steve’s guidance showed me how to build my case step by step. I only wish I had found this course sooner.”
— M.B., Freehold
“My spouse’s drinking made me feel powerless. But this course gave me clear direction and helped me see the legal path forward. Highly recommend.”
— T.L., Holmdel
I hear this all the time:
“I wish I found this sooner.”
Don’t let that be you.
It takes less than 10 seconds.
And it could save you months of stress and uncertainty.
The form is on this page.
All we need is an email address.
You'll get the benefits immediately.
So sign up now.
I'm looking forward to helping you.
Until next time,
Steve
Steven J. Kaplan, Esq.
Specializing in Divorce
In Monmouth County
