Lawyer Zeynep Yargıç evaluates for 12punto: 'Excessive alcohol consumption is grounds for divorce'
The divorce case filed by actor Serkan Balbal, known for his role as 'Tolga' in the series 'Çocuklar Duymasın', against his wife of 8 years, author Sabanur Kıraç Balbal, on the grounds of alleged alcohol addiction, has brought the question 'Is excessive alcohol consumption grounds for divorce?' to the agenda. Speaking to 12punto about the topic, which has been debated by the public, lawyer Zeynep Yargıç stated, "Excessive alcohol consumption by one of the spouses is grounds for divorce."
12punto
It is known that excessive alcohol consumption has negative effects on physical and mental health.
'Çocuklar Duymasın', 'Çanakkale 1915' and 'Dersimiz Atatürk' projects, actor Serkan Balbal's filing for divorce from his wife of 8 years, author Sabanur Kıraç Balbal, on the grounds of alleged drug and alcohol addiction, has brought the question 'Is excessive alcohol consumption grounds for divorce?' to the agenda.
'IF IT CAUSES A SERIOUS FAULT, IT IS GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE'
Prominent lawyer Zeynep Yargıç evaluated the topic, which is being debated by the public, for 12punto:
"Alcohol addiction is accepted as a behavior subject to divorce due to the fundamental breakdown of the marriage. If excessive alcohol consumption and addiction by one of the spouses leads to unrest within the marriage or causes a serious fault, it is grounds for divorce.
However, if it is a matter of social drinking and there is no situation that disturbs the parties, it cannot be said that alcohol alone is grounds for divorce. What is important here is that it is continuous and causes harm."
'IF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IS AT A REASONABLE LEVEL...'
Continuing her remarks, Yargıç stated, "In conclusion, alcoholism is grounds for divorce. Drinking alcohol and harming one's spouse is grounds for divorce, but if alcohol consumption is only for pleasure and is at a reasonable level and amount, it is not grounds for divorce; in fact, spouses drinking alcohol together in social settings can increase their shared experiences and may even prevent divorce."