Drug addiction and abuse can end up landing some in trouble with the law or worse. In these cases, a person may receive a court-ordered drug and alcohol assessment. From there they will follow any necessary steps to avoid further drug use while getting treatment.
If you’ve been court-ordered to get a drug and alcohol assessment, you might be feeling a little anxious about what to expect. But don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about court-ordered drug and alcohol assessments.
We’ll cover everything from what they are to what you can expect during the assessment process. So whether you’re just starting to research the right drug and alcohol rehab in Maine for yourself or you’re getting ready for your assessment, read on for everything you need to know.
What Is a Court-Ordered Drug and Alcohol Assessment?
A court-ordered drug and alcohol assessment is typically conducted as part of a legal proceeding, such as a DUI or other criminal case. The assessor will review the case and any relevant information, interview the person being assessed, and make recommendations to the court about treatment options. This may include inpatient or outpatient treatment, counseling, and other services.
There are several different aspects of a person and their case that are assessed during the process. This information helps determine the next steps going forward. These are usually conducted by professional counselors and staff.
The Process of Court-Ordered Drug and Alcohol Assessments
The process for a court-ordered assessment can vary depending on the court’s requirements and the specific case. However, there are some general steps that are usually followed. First, the court will order an assessment to be conducted by a qualified professional.
Next, the professional will collect information about the case and interview the person being assessed. Finally, the professional will make recommendations to the court about treatment options. These options may include inpatient or outpatient treatment, counseling, and other services.
Screenings
The goal of screenings is to determine whether someone has an alcohol or drug problem. Court-ordered screenings can also help identify who might become addicted, giving them more time and resources for treatment before their sentence becomes due. Several screening elements are done to determine who is at risk of substance use disorder as well.
Typically, questionnaires are used during the substance abuse evaluation done by a professional. Questionnaires that are typically used include:
- State-Made Inventory Questionnaire – A state government-made questionnaire
- CAGE Questionnaire – This questionnaire is only 4 questions but each of these should be answered thoroughly
- Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) – With a +90% accuracy rate, the SASSI is used to determine how likely a person is to develop a substance use disorder. Additionally, it also helps determine their willingness to change
- Alcohol Use Inventory (AUI) Questionnaire – This questionnaire is specific to those with a court-ordered alcohol assessment
Assessment
The assessment phase of a court-ordered drug and alcohol evaluation is designed to receive proof that the person has a substance use disorder and its specific symptoms. Human behavior professionals will also determine if they’re suffering from co-occurring disorders during this time, this is when a person is dealing with both a mental condition and addiction.
Essentially, this phase is a diagnosis of the person’s symptoms and will help determine the next steps in the evaluation. Typically, the results are accurate and provide information on the next steps. Two elements of the assessment include The Diagnostic Interview Schedule IV and the Addiction Severity Index:
- The Diagnostic Interview Schedule IV – A key resource for those who conduct court-ordered alcohol or drug evaluations. This diagnostic tool helps determine if an individual meets the criteria to receive any mental health diagnosis, as well as his/her substance use disorder treatment plan.
- Addiction Severity Index – The addiction severity index is a useful tool for understanding the various aspects of someone’s drug abuse. It helps assess their condition, and it also provides insight into how they got that way in order to hopefully find treatment options.
Follow-Up
Human behavior professionals use the results of screenings and assessments during alcohol or drug evaluations to determine if a follow-up is needed. This can include determining whether someone needs treatment for their addiction, as well as what kind would be most effective based on how long they have been addicted (among other factors).
A judge may order an individual to undergo evaluation when it’s believed he/she could benefit from counseling regarding issues related largely not just physically but mentally as well.
Referral
The final phase of a court-ordered drug and alcohol assessment involves recommendations by human behavior professionals based on prior evaluations. These will include specific treatment programs and counselors, such as ours at Casco Bay.
Reasons a Person May Receive a Court-Ordered Drug and Alcohol Assessment
Instead of getting in trouble with the law, many people are required to receive a court-ordered assessment or evaluation. For example, those who have committed drug violations and alcohol-related crimes may be ordered by their sentence for a test that will help them understand what motivated their actions as well as provide treatment options based on this knowledge. There are several different reasons why this may occur, a few include:
- Alcohol or drug possession
- Distributing controlled substances
- Intoxication in public
- Using forged or false ID
- Drug trafficking
- Driving while intoxicated or under the influence (DWI/DUI)
With this in mind, it’s important to remember that it is never too late to turn things around. Drug and alcohol assessments can help give people a second chance. At Casco Bay Recovery, we also believe that second chances are owed to all. If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, we’re here to help!
Programs Involved After Evaluation
There are several factors that may determine sentencing guidelines. Those who have been evaluated may have to attend a program, depending on the situation and other factors. In these cases, judges will most likely have a person attend one or several different programs, sometimes even before the evaluation. These may include:
- Drug and Alcohol Abuse Classes
- Drug or Alcohol Counseling
- DUI Alcohol/Drug Use Risk Reduction Program (or RRP)
- 12-Step Programs
- Random Drug/Alcohol Urinalysis
- Substance Abuse Treatment (Inpatient, Outpatient, Etc.)
These programs should be attended as ordered, before or after the evaluation stage (depending on the order). This is usually required and helps educate those who have been involved in sentencing and trouble with the law.
Drug and Alcohol Treatment Options
Drug abuse treatment in rehab is intended to assist individuals addicted to substances. That way they stop engaging in compulsive drug seeking and use, which can be extremely harmful to their health over time if left unchecked. Treatment is meant to create a long-term foundation while avoiding relapse down the line. At Casco Bay, we believe that a life without addiction is possible and achievable for all.
We offer several different forms of treatment, each catered to all our clients. You don’t have to go through addiction alone and we’re here to make the process smooth and safe. Some of our programs include:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Outpatient Center
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment
- Sober Living Options
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
- Men and Women’s rehab programs
These programs are specially designed to create an effective and successful form of treatment. If you or a loved one is suffering from drug abuse or addiction, it may be time to get help.
Casco Bay Recovery Is Here for You
We offer a variety of addiction treatment programs, including inpatient and outpatient treatment, counseling, and other services. We aim to help you get the treatment you need to overcome your addiction and lead a healthy, sober life.
Addiction and substance abuse can end up taking a toll on your mind, body, and life in general. Whether through a substance abuse evaluation or referral, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call today to get started on your journey to recovery!
