Substance abuse evaluations are often performed by families where parents are suspected of a problem These evaluations are typically carried out by courts to determine if a parent can provide adequate care for their minor child. The information presented here will explain the basic procedures for this process.

When is a substance abuse evaluation required?

A substance evaluation is required when a parent is suspected to having a substance abuse problem. Normally, parents who are divorcing and pursing custody arrangement will be given this test. However, it is primarily made available for moms or dads who are suspected for alcoholism or drug abuse. Each state has their own rules and regulation for administering this evaluation.

Why would a substance abuse evaluation be performed?

A substance evaluation is normally performed when a parent is suspected of having a problem. Normally, a person will report to the courts that a person is abusing a substance. Courts will then determine if this accusation of abuse is valid. They will evaluate provable evidence that a person is misusing drugs and/or alcohol.

They will evaluate frequency of use, how much of a substance a person is consuming and the consequences that have resulted from drug or alcohol usage. If a mother or father has been admitted to a rehab facility because of their substance abuse; this will be usable evidence that proves they have an issue with drugs and/or alcohol.

Courts will also examine (or consider) the circumstances that a person decided to use alcohol or drugs. They will evaluate the treatment that a person needs to recover and if there are any impediments to the recovery process. Relapse considerations will be evaluated, mental and physical health issues will be addressed as well. Courts will decide about a parent’s ability to take care of their child based off these factors.

How are substance evaluations performed?

Substance evaluations are carried out by various departments within the community where a court system resides. A public or local health department or substance abuse facility is often used to perform this test. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service establish guidance for this type of testing and many courts use their regulations. Most test are performed through urinalysis. However, some test is intrusive and require test subjects to undergo invasive processes.

How do courts make judgments based off test findings?

Courts all over the country have their own criteria for determining the outcome of each test. Keep in mind there is a lot of criteria and information they must consider before they decide. No two cases or situations are alike. Since this is the case, each case must be carefully considered by judges when they make a final determination on the situation. One thing that each court will consider is the best interest of the child. They will make sure they are making the best decision that will help a child to be successful and to live the best life possible.

Also, if a parent is declared unfit to have children, that individual will lose custody and must undergo treatment to regain this privilege. Courts can also decide that parent can remain within a home if they receive treatment for their alcohol and drug related issues. Again, each court will rule in the best interest of the child.