What To Expect From Your DUI Assessment
by Kenneth Pierce
Among other things, an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) is likely to result in being ordered to an alcohol assessment. This procedure is not a substitute for other sentencing, but the way you handle this aspect of your arrest can greatly influence not only your life but your case. Read on to learn more.
What is an Assessment?
The point of an alcohol use assessment is to determine whether or not you have a problem with abuse. If a specialist determines that you are addicted to alcohol, a treatment plan to address it is developed. Not everyone that is arrested for DUI needs treatment. Some people make a bad choice and learn their lesson. Sentencing might still require those who don't seem to have a serious problem to complete some counseling, however.
What Happens at an Assessment?
An assessment is conducted by a mental health expert who reviews the details of your arrest and criminal record and interviews you about your history of alcohol use. The results of the assessment are provided to the court and can be used in your sentencing. Often, the judge will order you to undergo alcohol abuse treatment and submit to periodic and random alcohol screenings. In most cases, you must pay the cost of the assessment and the treatment program. Treatment options can include attendance at 12-step programs, private counseling, educational programs, inpatient and/or outpatient rehabilitation, and more.
Consider Voluntary Actions
Speak to your defense attorney about being proactive with your DUI case. You can take several steps forward and get the ball rolling, by voluntarily completing an alcohol assessment on your own before the judge orders it. Doing things this way not only saves time and gets a major requirement out of the way, but it shows the judge that you are serious about addressing the problem. Your case may either end in a plea bargain or a trial, but having an assessment and starting treatment is sure to be considered a positive when sentencing is considered. If you wait and have it ordered, completing the same actions won't have the same positive impact with your case. Additionally, it's best to admit you have a problem and seek help as soon as possible. Doing so could prevent you from getting charged with additional DUI incidents, in the future.
Undergoing an alcohol assessment and treatment plan are often requirements that must be met before you can get your driver's license back and may be part of an overall probation or diversion program. Speak to your DUI lawyer and get started on making better decisions, today.
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About Me
As the sister of a law student, I thought that I could handle my own personal injury case when I was hit by a vehicle as I was walking across the street. Luckily, the car wasn't going very fast – but I did end up with a contusion and a broken leg. Turns out the process wasn't easy and I ended up hiring a lawyer. I learned a lot about the kind of information needed to win a personal injury case such as the kind of evidence that is effective and the types of documentation needed from the insurance company, employers, and even witnesses that were at the scene. My name is Rebecca, and I created this website to help guide you through your personal injury case. There is no reason for you to feel alone throughout the process, and I hope my insight helps you feel more empowered with your decision making.
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