Substance Arrests
Examples of substance related arrests are possession, intent to distribute and public intoxication. However, even an arrest such as theft may be considered related to substance use if the intent was to obtain money or goods to acquire drugs or alcohol. There is a growing recognition that many individuals who have committed a crime would not have done so if they did not have an addiction, and therefore if the addiction is treated properly we can eliminate future legal offenses. As such, at the time of sentencing, judges often take into consideration whether an individual has initiated an assessment and is wiling to participate in treatment. Because we do not offer treatment and therefore we do not benefit from the results of the assessment, many judges in Salt Lake County will refer to ARS exclusively and sometimes they will not accept assessments and recommendations from other agencies.
Fees
Individuals who have the financial means to pay for the assessment, which is $220.00, can simply call our office at 801-532-1850 to schedule an appointment. It is helpful if you have your case number and the name of the presiding judge (if you know it).
Individuals who cannot afford the assessment should attend Interim Group Services where we will begin the process of assessment and referral to the appropriate treatment.
Payment is due at the time of assessment. We do not accept checks, American Express or Discover Card. Please contact our office 24 hours in advance if you need to reschedule your appointment otherwise a $25 rescheduling fee may be incurred.
What to expect
Assessments include a clinical interview, the administration of the Addiction Severity Index, the American Society of Addiction Medicine Placement Criteria, and a criminal background history when appropriate. Assessments take approximately two hours. In addition, there is some paperwork to be completed once you arrive at our office, so we ask you to come early. During the assessment you will meet with a clinician who will ask you several questions about all aspects of your life. Some of the questions may seem irrelevant, but keep in mind that questions about your childhood, relationships, mental health functioning and other topics help us determine the best possible referral to help you strengthen both internal and external resources. Upon completion of the assessment, you will usually be informed immediately of your referral and be provided with information on how to contact the agency where you will be referred. You will also be asked to sign a release of information so that once we complete our written assessment, copies can be provided to all concerned individuals (i.e., the agency you have been referred to, judges, probation officers, attorneys, etc.).
Bring photo identification to the assessment.
