Substance Abuse
/ˈsʌbstəns əˌbjus/
Definitions
- (n.) The illegal or improper use of drugs or controlled substances, often addressed in criminal law and regulatory contexts.
The defendant was charged with possession related to substance abuse.
- (n.) Use of substances leading to impairment or dependence, relevant in family law or employment law contexts for assessing fitness or liability.
Substance abuse may affect custody determinations in divorce cases.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Terms relating to substance abuse are context-sensitive, appearing in criminal, family, and employment law; clarity in specifying the legal context is advisable.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.