A substance abuse evaluation is used to build an effective treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. By assessing your history of substance use and addiction treatment, as well as other factors, the evaluator can provide appropriate treatment recommendations to help you on your journey to recovery.
The purpose of a substance abuse evaluation
A comprehensive substance abuse evaluation may:
- Determine if you have a drug or alcohol addiction
- Assess the extent or level of addiction
- Determine if there are any co-occurring conditions, including any physical or mental health concerns, as well as polydrug use assess how substance use affects your life
- Allow the treatment team to establish a baseline and build a treatment plan for your needs and recovery
Court-ordered evaluations
If a charge involves drugs or alcohol, then a judge may order a substance abuse evaluation.
A judge might require a substance abuse evaluation when you’re charged with:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Minor in Possession (MIP)
- Drug or alcohol possession
- Disorderly conduct
- Public intoxication
- Using a false ID
What’s the point of a court-ordered evaluation?
A court-ordered evaluation determines if an ongoing condition like substance use disorder (SUD) is present, or if there is not enough evidence to support a diagnosis. Even if there isn’t enough evidence, many states will still require you to undergo various programs or treatment obligations as deemed acceptable by the court.
Judges & Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP)
Research has shown that lawyers may suffer from substance use disorder and depression at a rate higher than the general population. Experience has shown that lawyers may be more reluctant than others to seek help for their own problems. The purpose of JLAP is to provide confidential assistance to judges, lawyers, and law students who may encounter these and other issues that could interfere with their ability to practice in a professional and competent manner.
Pillars of Wellness is partnered with JLAP to provide substance use evaluations in the Northwest Indiana region to help provide treatment recommendations.
Substance Use Resources