Why courts order one
Courts and probation departments often order an assessment after an alcohol- or drug-related charge: a DUI or OWI, drug possession, or an offense where drinking played a part. Sometimes it comes before sentencing, so the judge knows what to require; sometimes it is a condition of probation. Some employers ask for one too.
Assessment, evaluation, DUI evaluation: the same thing?
Usually, yes. Your paperwork may say substance abuse assessment, substance abuse evaluation, alcohol assessment, drug and alcohol evaluation, or DUI or OWI evaluation. In each case the court wants the same thing: a clinical interview, a look at your risk, and a written report with recommendations. It is not a test you pass or fail.
One exception: in Michigan, a driver’s license restoration hearing calls for its own Substance Use Evaluation on Form SOS-258. See the Michigan license restoration evaluation page.
What happens during the assessment
- Questions about your alcohol and drug use: what, how often, how much and for how long
- The circumstances of your charge, and any past offenses
- Your health, family, work and daily life
- Standardized screening questionnaires about substance use
- Your own goals, and any changes you have already made
At Schroeder Counseling, Jennifer Schroeder, M.S., CADC conducts the whole interview one-on-one over secure Zoom, so you don’t need to travel to an office. For a closer look at the interview itself, see what to expect at a substance abuse assessment.
What the report recommends
The written report summarizes your history and screening results and makes a recommendation. Depending on what the interview shows, that can range from no further action, to an education class, to outpatient counseling or a more intensive level of treatment. The court decides what to require; the report gives it the information to decide.
How to get ready
- Have your court paperwork or case number handy.
- Find a quiet, private place with a camera and a stable internet connection.
- Answer honestly. The evaluator can only recommend what fits if the picture is accurate.
- Ask your attorney or probation officer where the report should go.
Cost, scheduling and your court
A standard assessment is $200. If your court date is close, Fast Track is $250; the assessment page lists report timing for both. When your booking is paid, we email you an appointment confirmation letter you can show your court or probation officer, and on request we send the finished report directly to your court, attorney or probation officer.
Many courts and probation departments allow an assessment completed online, but requirements vary. Before you book, confirm that an online assessment with a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) fits your case. A completed assessment is not refundable, and you can cancel or reschedule with at least 24 hours’ notice.