When Alcohol Testing Is Required
There are several situations where alcohol testing might be required and ordered by a judge, attorney, DCF, substance abuse counselor or a probation officer. These include:
- Probation for drug or alcohol related offenses
- Divorce cases
- DUI or DWI convictions and terms of release
- Child custody or family court orders including conditions from Department of Children’s and Families (DCF)
- Domestic violence cases
- Workplace safety requirements for workers who have previously tested positive for alcohol
Types of Alcohol Testing Methods
- Urine drug test often combined with drugs of abuse testing
- EtG alcohol with urine or hair detecting consumption of alcohol but not impairment
- Breathalyzer Testing conducted by a breath alcohol technician (BAT); an instant test determining current impairment
- Instant saliva alcohol test screening which would necessitate a confirmation test with a breathalyzer if there is a positive on the instant test
- Lab-based oral fluid testing, a saliva specimen is collected and sent to a lab for initial screening and confirmation testing when needed to verify a positive result
- Blood alcohol testing – rare because it is invasive and higher cost, but it is an option and detects impairment very accurately
- SCRAM Ankle Monitors – used by many probation departments and court systems to measure alcohol levels through perspiration. This is continuous monitoring, used for 24/7 accountability
Frequency and Testing Requirements
The frequency of testing and for how long will vary for each situation. This will be determined by DCF, probation departments, judges or through a settlement agreement. Your testing could be random or scheduled. You might also be subject to continuous monitoring with a SCRAM device. You must not miss your schedule for alcohol testing.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
How to Prepare for Alcohol Testing
In preparing for alcohol testing, do not consume any alcohol. Avoid also any products that contain alcohol including rum cake, other foods with alcohol, mouthwash, cold medicine, and alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Always arrive at the testing facility with nothing in your mouth for a minimum 10 minutes prior.
Be on time, or better yet be early. Bring a valid government-issued ID. Maintain any receipts or documentation of your testing event. If you miss a test or are even late, you could end up with a violation which could have serious consequences.
Where to Get Court-Ordered Alcohol Testing
Always look for a professional alcohol testing service. Check Google Reviews for the company you are calling. National Drug Screening (NDS) offers fast, confidential and reliable alcohol testing services nationwide – in all areas of the United States. It is best to call NDS at 866-843-4545 to find a testing facility near where you live or where you will be while on vacation.
Never just walk into a facility without making prior arrangements. You will more than likely be turned away. You can normally walk in for testing once you have an order placed. Some facilities might require an appointment so order your testing early in the day. Be clear on what you need and what is required of you. NDS also offers professional advice to help you fulfill your legal obligations promptly and clearly.
Conclusion
In cases involving offenders where drugs or alcohol might have played a role, it is often the case that alcohol testing is mandated by the conditions of probation or court orders.
This requirement may extend to domestic violence cases, divorce and child custody matters. It is essential that individuals who are subject to court-ordered alcohol testing comprehend the procedure and the significance of adhering to it.