How You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes When Enrolling in an Online Alcohol Drug Class 
© 2013 Thomas Wilson, Director Tom Wilson Counseling Center 

If you have been charged with an alcohol or drug offense and been to court, then enrolling in an online alcohol drug class may be part of your obligations to the court. This is usually required by the court before the court releases you from supervision.

However, a simple mistake such as choosing the wrong class or choosing the wrong online alcohol drug class provider could get you into even more trouble with the court.  If you want to resolve your case quickly, avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake # 1: Enrolling in a class from a provider that does not have the proper credentials or is not accredited.

Online Alcohol Drug Awareness Classes are taught by professionals who are certified or licensed in their state. If you are unsure, ask for a copy of their license or check their credentials at the court.

Mistake #2: Enrolling in the wrong class.  Be sure to enroll in the right class that is required by the court and that fits with your work schedule.

Normally these classes are called alcohol or drug awareness classes and are 4 to 32 hours in length.  Be sure to check the required number of hours to avoid paying more than is required by your court order. Some providers may not give you a specific number of hours or weeks, so be wary of programs that won’t give an estimated length of treatment. Licensed course providers should be happy to help you find the right class and works around your work schedule.

Mistake #3: Enrolling in an online class without getting approval from your court or agency.

An approved course provider will not encourage you to sign up unless you have gotten permission from the court or agency that requires the class.  Be sure you have permission from the court, agency or your attorney to take the class.  Be sure to tell them about your work schedule so that you have access any time of day or night. It’s always a good idea to check in advance.

Mistake #4: Enrolling in the cheapest class.

Just because the class is the cheapest, does not necessarily mean it will cost the least in the long run. Some providers charge extra for certificates or other paper work required by the court. Inquire about all the costs involved in getting proof of enrollment, progress reports to court or probation, additional “enrollment fees” and certificates of completion. Approved providers should disclose all costs in advance.