After a DUI arrest, many courts require a substance abuse evaluation as part of the sentencing or probation process. This evaluation helps the court determine whether you have a substance use disorder and what level of treatment or education you may need. Understanding the process can help you prepare and ensure a smooth experience.
A DUI substance abuse evaluation is not a test you can pass or fail. It is a clinical assessment conducted by a licensed evaluator to understand your relationship with alcohol or drugs. The evaluator's role is to provide an honest, professional assessment — not to judge you.
During the evaluation, the evaluator will ask about your history of alcohol and drug use, including frequency, quantity, and any consequences related to your use. You will also be asked about the circumstances of your DUI arrest, any prior DUI offenses, family history of substance use, and your current life circumstances.
The evaluator will use standardized screening tools to quantify your risk level. Common tools include the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), and the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST). These are clinical instruments that produce objective, measurable scores.
Based on the evaluation, the licensed evaluator will make recommendations that typically fall into one of these categories: no treatment needed with an education class, outpatient counseling (individual or group), intensive outpatient program (IOP), or residential/inpatient treatment. The court uses these recommendations to determine the conditions of your sentence or probation.
The evaluation report is a professional document that includes your substance use history, screening tool results, diagnostic impressions, and treatment recommendations. It is designed to provide courts with the information they need to make informed decisions about your case.
At Schroeder Counseling, DUI substance abuse evaluations are available via secure Zoom sessions with licensed evaluators. Reports are typically completed within 1-3 business days and can be sent directly to your court, attorney, or probation officer. Our evaluations are accepted by courts nationwide.