No one should ever drink and drive. Individuals who are separating or divorcing need to be particularly cautious.

A driving-while-intoxicated arrest, and especially a conviction, may have serious consequences in marital proceedings.

First, there is the potential embarrassment of relatives and friends reading about the incident in a newspaper article or police blotter report. Second, the arrest may mean taking time off the job to attend court dates and could lead to docked salaries or loss of employment. Third, a conviction could mean performing community service, paying serious fines, or even serving jail time.

For individuals in separation or divorce proceedings, an arrest or conviction can give an opposing spouse a stronger case for child custody, child support, and other negotiated matters.

While in separation or divorce proceedings, do not drink and drive. Go to parties if you wish, but always designate a sober driver or take a taxi home.

Please contact Attorney Holly Gayle Gershonfor more information.