Virginia Code § 19.2-299.2 mandates alcohol and substance abuse screening for individuals convicted of certain Class 1 misdemeanors, especially when probation or alcohol safety programs are involved. The law requires courts to order assessments to determine the degree of substance abuse and recommend appropriate treatment. These provisions aim to address substance abuse issues as part of the sentencing process for relevant offenses.
Individuals convicted of certain Class 1 misdemeanors, especially when probation or alcohol safety programs are involved, are required to undergo screening.
Yes, if the defendant's sentence includes probation or participation in an alcohol safety program, the court may order an assessment.
The program determines the degree of alcohol abuse and recommends appropriate treatment levels based on the assessment.
Participation is required only if the court orders it, typically when probation or specific sanctions are part of the sentence.