Q: What can I expect at my DLAD Substance Abuse Evaluation? At 1st Step Referral Services you can expect a complete, one-stop service. You will interview with an experienced Certified Addictions Counselor (CAC) in a relaxed, professional environment. The process will take approximately 1.5 hours. When you first arrive, we will take time to make sure you have all the information you need so you don't leave wondering what's next. We provide a folder, checklist and a pre-addressed envelope to submit information to the Michigan DLAD. You can take your drug screening on site so you don't have to go through the hassle of setting another appointment and coordinate getting it back to us. When you meet with the evaluator, you will go over your past and current use history and other information necessary to perform a complete DLAD evaluation.
Q: Do I have to get my DLAD evaluation completed in the county that I live? No. The standard for DLAD evaluations are uniform across the state. However, your DLAD hearing will be set at a location in your county.
Q: What if I don't remember when I received my DUI offenses? You can request your driving record by calling your local Secretary of State office or by visiting the MI SOS website. (See link above.)
Q: Will my medical health insurance pay for my evaluation? In general, No. You may want to check with your provider, but we have yet to see a health care insurance plan pay for an evaluation that is required by a third party to have driving privileges restored as a result of driving with alcohol or drugs in the system. The assumption is that you do not have a substance abuse condition that warrants treatment at this point.
Q: Why do I need a drug screen when my license was revoked for alcohol? After a driver's license is revoked for "risky" driving behavior, it is the DLAD's responsibility to determine that the applicant has no other substance use behaviors that will diminish their ability to drive responsibly or that will put the public at risk.
Q: What type of information needs to be in my Letters of Support? Who should write them? Please see the DLAD Hearing Packet above.The information outlines very clearly who you should have write letters, what should be included in the letters and additional requirements.
Q: What if I haven't participated in support groups, attended education classes or went through a treatment program? Each situation is unique. However, your Hearing Agent is going to be very interested in what you have done since your last offense in regards to making positive lifestyle changes. Participating in substance abuse programming is an important step to facilitate change and it offers the Hearing Agent a tool to ascertain whether a person will continue to abstain from substances. You can find a listing of support groups in your area by clicking on the link above. Understanding the legal implications of driving under the influence and implementing a Change Behavior Plan are also important. Feel free to contact our office for a listing of local education providers or check out the Breaking the Cycle (BTC) section on our website. Participants receive a Certificate of Completion to submit to the DLAD.
Q: Do I need an attorney? Clients must make up their own mind as to whether they want or need to retain an attorney. It is not mandatory. If you do decide to have an attorney handle your DLAD Hearing, please be sure you are retaining one that understands the DLAD process and requirements! You always have the opportunity to take a supportive family member or sponsor with you to your hearing.
