A court-ordered drug test can be mandated for many reasons, from drug-related criminal charges to child custody cases. Going through the process of finding, taking, and following up with a court-ordered drug test may be a bit different from a voluntary one. These tests are often more comprehensive than elective ones and may require you to provide multiple biological samples depending on the reason for the court’s testing edict. Because of the court’s involvement, it is best to work with a qualified legal professional from the outset of the situation.
Criminal Defense Attorney Brian P. Gabriel has successfully guided many clients through the court-ordered drug test process. Working with a lawyer before you even take the test ensures that you get the fairest possible shake in the situation.
Most Common Cases Associated with Court-Ordered Drug Tests
Court-ordered drug testing can be implemented in any case where substance abuse may be a factor. Some of the most common case types that dictate court-ordered testing include:
- Child custody
- DUI/DWI
- Drug trafficking/ possession
- Probation violation
A case doesn’t necessarily have to include a drug-related component for the court to order periodic testing. There are many instances where it is mandated simply to ensure that you comply with the law overall.
What to Expect from a Court-Ordered Drug Test in Florida
Knowing what to expect from a court-ordered drug test in Florida can help ensure that you are prepared to undergo the process. All tests are administered by licensed, accredited labs that follow stringent procedures for accuracy purposes. There is a clear chain of custody for these tests, ensuring that the sample is properly monitored at all times. This prevents contamination and tampering from occurring in association with the sample.
It’s important to note that you may not be tested in the same way each time. The biological sample used to test you for substances may include urine, hair, saliva, blood, or a combination of these elements. Because different legal drug tests check for different components, drug-ordered testing might combine random tests with more than one sample needed each time. So, you should always be prepared for the unexpected when submitting to court-ordered drug tests.
Additionally, these tests are rarely scheduled on your time or with much—if any—advance notice. When you are given the mandate to submit to court-ordered drug testing, your criminal defense attorney may tell you that these tests are random on purpose. The court wants to know you are abstaining from substances at all times. Therefore, even if court-ordered drug tests are scheduled at inconvenient times, you still have to show up and submit your sample to avoid running afoul of the court.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Knows the System
Dealing with any court-ordered process can be stressful, especially if the result may initiate another chain of events relating to your legal circumstances. Given the many factors that can cause a less desirable outcome, you need a lawyer on your side every step of the way. Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has spent more than 30 years helping clients navigate the complexities of court-ordered drug tests in Florida. He will handle your case using all the knowledge and skill developed over the span of his career.
Start with a free consultation today by calling Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel of The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel at (561) 622-5575. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.