Alcohol Education Courses in Bloomington

If you have been charged with or convicted of driving while intoxicated, alcohol education courses in Bloomington could be part of your sentence. These classes can be required for both first-time and repeat offenders. They are often presented as an alternative to a jail sentence, so taking an alcohol education course could be beneficial in your case. Your DWI attorney could let you know whether this is an option for you and ensure that you complete the requirements for your program.

When Are Alcohol Education Classes Required?

There are a few different situations where a court can require alcohol education courses. One is as an alternative penalty for first-time DWI offenders, especially those who do not have any other criminal history. For example, Hennepin County has a one-day program designed for those convicted of their first DWI in the area.

Minnesota’s DWI Court program may be an option for people who are charged with a DWI and also dealing with alcohol or other substance abuse issues. This program is offered at the county level for both first-time and repeat offenders.

A parole officer can require alcohol education courses after a person convicted of a DWI in Bloomington has completed a jail sentence. Courts can also order a person to take classes at any point after a DWI or other alcohol-related conviction. Whenever a person is required to take a DWI class, it is important for them to understand all of the requirements, attend all of the class sessions, and arrive on time.

What Do Alcohol Education Courses Include?

Depending on the specific program a person is required to complete, there are a few different ways a course may work. Some classes are provided directly by the county government. Others are provided by court-approved private companies. These classes usually include both information about safe driving and behavioral therapy. For example, the Hennepin County one-day program includes cognitive therapy and self-assessment activities, a panel of people impacted by drunk driving, and general alcohol education.

Alcohol education courses from private education companies in Bloomington are often split into shorter programs for people who do not have a substance use disorder and longer ones for those with one. First-time offenders can usually take more straightforward courses that focus on general alcohol awareness and safety information. More in-depth courses for repeat offenders and those with alcohol dependence also include strategies to avoid unhealthy drinking. Some of these courses combine education with counseling and individual treatment plans for alcohol abuse. Regardless of the type of course, the person convicted of DWI must pay a fee to participate.

Discuss Alcohol Education Courses With a Bloomington Lawyer Today

Alcohol education courses in Bloomington are a common alternative penalty for a first DWI conviction. They can also be required if you have been convicted of DWI before, especially if you struggle with alcohol abuse. If you are ordered to take an alcohol class, you need to attend all of the sessions and complete all of the requirements to avoid additional DWI penalties. If you have been charged with a DWI, hiring a lawyer is essential. Your lawyer may be able to help you avoid jail time and take alcohol education classes instead. Schedule a consultation with BK Law Group to discuss your case today.