Why You Shouldn’t Wait:
The Smart Move Before Your Court Date
If you’ve been charged with a DUI, Minor in Possession (MIP), or another first-time substance-related offense, you might think you need a “DUI class.” But let’s be clear—ASAM Level 1 is NOT a DUI class. It is a structured, therapeutic process designed to help you understand and change behaviors, not just check a box before court. Pre-Adjudication ASAM Level 1 Treatment can help you in many ways.
At Recovery Café, we provide early intervention and outpatient treatment that focuses on **education, accountability, and behavior change**—not just fulfilling a court requirement.
What Is Pre-Adjudication & Why Does It Matter?
Pre-adjudication means taking action before your case is fully decided in court. It’s a way to show that you are taking responsibility, without waiting for a judge to order you to do it.
Many people don’t realize that waiting too long can hurt them. We often get calls from individuals who need treatment **completed in three weeks before court**—but that’s not possible. This is a process of **weeks, not hours.**
How ASAM Level 1 Differs from DUI Classes
A **DUI class** is a brief, lecture-based course to satisfy legal compliance. **ASAM Level 1 is real therapy and education.**
| ASAM Level 1 Therapy | DUI Classes |
|---|---|
| Therapeutic & educational | Lecture-based, no therapy |
| Designed for behavior change | Designed to satisfy legal requirements |
| Structured over weeks | Often completed in a few sessions |
| May include drug testing & peer support | No testing, no real support |
What to Expect in the Program
This is a **structured outpatient program**, but it’s **not one-size-fits-all**. It is customized based on your evaluation. Here’s what it generally includes:
- One session per week (or a combination of individual and group sessions).
- Random drug or alcohol testing (“wiz quiz,” or pee in a cup, may be required).
- Education and counseling to help you understand decision-making around substance use.
- Peer support (sometimes), depending on your evaluation results.
- Completion documentation for court or probation purposes.
You will receive a Notice of Completion, but the real goal is ensuring **you don’t end up in this situation again**.
Why You Can’t Rush the Process
Many people assume they can complete this **in a rush**—but that’s not how it works. The court expects **weeks of participation**, not a crammed set of sessions.
If you **start early**, you:
- Show the court you are taking responsibility proactively.
- Avoid last-minute stress and court delays.
- Have time to absorb and apply what you learn.
Final Thought: Take Responsibility & Take Action Now
You might not think you have a drinking problem, but when you were drinking, it created a problem. That alone is reason to take this seriously.
This program isn’t about punishment—it’s about real change. If you want to get out of this situation and avoid repeating the same mistake, now is the time to start.
📞 Call us today to schedule your evaluation and take control of your future.
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