Prince George’s County DUI Substance Abuse Evaluations
If you were charged with a DUI, the judge may order you to undergo a Prince George’s County DUI substance abuse evaluation. An evaluation typically examines your history and substance use to determine the appropriate treatment regimen to best deal with any problems you may have or be at risk for. These evaluations are typically administered in the form of a one-on-one assessment with a clinician or other appropriate medical personnel and the individual.
While these assessments may seem like a hassle, an experienced defense attorney may recommend you enroll in one. These programs can make a good impression on the court and show that you are taking your DUI charges seriously.
What Happens at a Substance Abuse Evaluation?
In Prince George’s County, a DUI substance abuse evaluation includes various standardized tests and questionnaires used to investigate the person’s history, use, and overall consumption. The perception may vary depending on how the questions are answered and assessed. Specific factors of the incident may also be taken into account. A high blood-alcohol-read, a subsequent offense, or a family history of alcoholism or drug use may affect the assessment. Everything from the past, present and future surrounding the individual and the charges they may be facing could come into play.
Substance Abuse Treatment
If the assessment indicates a tendency towards future substance abuse problems, an individual may be enrolled in an appropriate treatment program. Dealing with a current addiction as opposed to a potential issue is going to be different. Every treatment plan is tailored specifically to the individual and their needs, which is why an assessment is done before engaging the action plan.
A person who has a problem typically needs treatment rather than punishment. It may be a misconception that an addiction or a substance abuse issue needs to be punished. In terms of an evaluation that indicates a pattern of substance abuse, the legislature and courts could take a more treatment-oriented approach when dealing with these types of behaviors. A plan of action may be needed to deal with the individual’s use.
Benefits of Undergoing an Evaluation
The advantages of undergoing a DUI substance abuse evaluation in Prince George’s County could be two-fold. It could be a great way of treating and helping the person if there is a potential criminal charge. The evaluation is not designed to be a punishment. While the effort involved at times may seem like a punishment, the goal is to help somebody.
Judges typically want to assess whether this is a one-time thing, whether the person needs help, or if there is some other reason causing this kind of behavior. Unlike other charges, whether they may be disorderly conduct or theft, DUIs kill people every day. Reducing the incidences of harm to self or others is one of the big goals that judges typically have. The only way to truly get to the root of the problem may be through an appropriate assessment and treating plan.
Speak to a Prince George’s County DUI Attorney About Your Evaluation and Treatment Options
If you were charged with a DUI, you may be able to help your case by undergoing Prince George’s County DUI substance abuse evaluations. These programs are designed to identify current or future substance abuse issues and determine an effective course of treatment. Not only could these programs lessen the consequences of your criminal case, they could also help you make positive changes in your life. Reach out to an experienced defense attorney today to discuss your case and your eligibility for substance abuse evaluations.