{"id":351670,"date":"2024-10-24T10:04:18","date_gmt":"2024-10-24T15:04:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/family\/child-custody\/will-i-lose-custody-of-my-child-if-i-fail-a-drug-test.html"},"modified":"2024-10-24T11:41:00","modified_gmt":"2024-10-24T16:41:00","slug":"will-i-lose-custody-of-my-child-if-i-fail-a-drug-test","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/child-custody\/will-i-lose-custody-of-my-child-if-i-fail-a-drug-test.html","title":{"rendered":"Will I Lose Custody of My Child if I Fail a Drug Test?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Will I Lose Custody of My Child if I Fail a Drug Test?<\/h1>\n
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\n By Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa McCall, J.D.<\/a>\n | Last reviewed\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

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Failing a drug test doesn’t automatically equal custody loss, but does trigger investigation. Substance abuse or addiction is just one factor the court considers in custody decisions. Factors like drug type and usage influence how the court treats a failed drug test in a child custody case.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n

Ultimately, family courts use the \u201cbest interests of the child\u201d standard when determining custody orders<\/a>. This standard prioritizes the child’s well-being, which includes ensuring a safe and stable environment.<\/p>\n

This article discusses how drug abuse impacts child custody cases. Learn how the family court assesses a failed drug test, circumstances that prompt drug testing, and more.<\/p>\n

When Does the Court Issue Drug Testing for Custody Proceedings?<\/h2>\n

There are several circumstances that can prompt a judge to order a parent to submit to a drug test during a custody battle:<\/p>\n