The latest episode of the Today’s Family Lawyer Podcast sees host David Opie in conversation with two experts from LexTox, a UK‑based accredited testing company. Donna Muldoon, Reporting Manager and forensic toxicologist, and Sophie Lawrence, Client Manager, join David to discuss how testing services can support family law professionals and their clients during one of the most challenging times of the year.

With Christmas fast approaching, the trio explore the heightened risks faced by individuals struggling with alcohol or substance abuse. Donna outlines the role of LexTox in providing robust testing solutions, including hair strand analysis, breath tests, and the innovative drug patch. She explains how these tools not only deliver real‑time monitoring but also act as deterrents, helping clients maintain abstinence when temptation is at its peak.

Sophie brings a client‑focused perspective, sharing real case scenarios where testing has helped families demonstrate abstinence and avoid lengthy court proceedings. Her examples highlight how these services can provide reassurance to social workers, solicitors, and the courts, while ultimately supporting families to stay together.

The discussion also touches on the importance of chain of custody, ensuring results are reliable and admissible in court. Donna explains how patches are fitted, monitored, and removed under strict procedures, with photographs and paperwork providing a clear audit trail.

The guests also highlight the limitations of traditional hair testing, which can take months to show abstinence. By contrast, breath tests and drug patches offer immediate results, giving professionals timely evidence to support clients.

Education is another theme. Sophie notes that while drug patches have been used in the US for decades, they are relatively new to UK courts. Raising awareness of these tools is vital to ensure professionals can access the most effective testing options.

The Today's Family Lawyer podcast is available on your preferred podcast provider and at www.todaysfamilylawyer.co.uk.

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