A judge has ordered former NBA All-Star Allen Iverson to abstain from alcohol for 24 hours prior to scheduled visits with his children. This child custody restriction will remain in place until all of his five children reach the age of 18. This restriction was in addition to other limitations, such as requiring 12 months of AA meetings and 18 months of sobriety. The 37-year-old is also required to see a psychiatrist.
The ex-NBA player’s wife received both legal and physical custody of the five children, which was awarded after the judge stated in the divorce decree that the basketball player did not know how to take care of them. The judge said that Iverson was hindering the development and growth of the children, both emotionally and spiritually. The children have been left alone with no adult supervision and on at least one occasion his daughters were reportedly left in a hotel room with men the mother did not know. The judge was also very critical of Iverson’s refusal to obtain any help for what the judge termed as a serious alcohol problem.
The ex-NBA point guard had also expressed hopes of returning to play professional basketball. Some rumors circulated in 2011 that he was heading to Chicago’s pro team. However, he recently turned down a chance to play in a D-league team. There have also been reports that he has recently lost his $2.5 mansion to foreclosure. The 37-year-old ball player has also had numerous run-ins with law enforcement over the years, which have included arrests for carrying a concealed weapon and possession of marijuana.
Iverson’s case is a high-profile example of a common problem: the effect of alcohol abuse on a family. The judge’s response to the evidence is also an example of how fame and money are not more important than the children’s best interest. Mothers and fathers who are dealing with a partner who has a problem with alcohol or drugs should take comfort in knowing that the court will put the children first in making decisions about custody and visitation.
Source: NewsOne, “Judge: Allen Iverson Is A Poor Parent, Must Stay Away From Alcohol To See Kids,” Feb. 4, 2013
We work with families — high-profile, like the Iversons, or just everyday people — on custody and visitation plans. If you’d like to learn more about our Libertyville, Illinois, practice, please visit our website.
