In Maryland, alcohol education classes typically mean educational programs or courses designed to provide individuals with information and skills related to alcohol use, abuse, and its consequences. These classes are often offered as part of the state’s efforts to address issues related to alcohol abuse, impaired driving, and public safety.

Who attends alcohol education classes in Maryland?

Alcohol education classes are typically attended by individuals who are required to complete them as part of a legal requirement or as a condition of probation due to alcohol-related offenses or violations. The specific individuals who attend these classes can include:

• DUI/DWI offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Impaired (DWI) offenses in Maryland often attend Alcohol Education classes as part of their legal sentence.
• Minors in possession (MIP): Minors who are caught in possession of alcohol may be required to attend Alcohol Education programs as a diversionary measure or as part of a legal disposition.
• Court-mandated individuals: People involved in alcohol-related legal cases, such as those charged with assault, disorderly conduct, or public intoxication, may be required to attend Alcohol Education classes as part of their sentence or probation.
• Individuals seeking treatment: Some individuals voluntarily attend Alcohol Education classes as part of their efforts to address alcohol-related issues or as a component of a broader substance abuse treatment program.
• Students and community members: Alcohol awareness and education programs may be offered by schools, colleges, or community organizations to educate students and community members about responsible alcohol use and the risks of alcohol abuse.
• Parents and family members: Some programs offer educational sessions for parents and family members to help them understand and address alcohol-related issues among their loved ones.

The reasons for attending Alcohol Education classes can vary from addressing legal requirements to seeking education and support for alcohol-related issues. The content and format of these classes can also vary depending on the program and the target audience. In many cases, the goal is to promote responsible alcohol use, reduce the risk of future alcohol-related problems, and enhance public safety.

Maryland’s alcohol education classes intend to promote responsible alcohol use, reduce the risk of future alcohol-related problems, and enhance public safety. Here are some common types of Alcohol Education classes  offered in Maryland:

Alcohol education for DUI/DWI offenders

Maryland law mandates that individuals convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) must attend Alcohol Education programs. These programs aim to educate offenders about the risks of impaired driving and alcohol abuse, promote responsible drinking behavior, and help reduce the likelihood of future offenses.

Minor in possession (MIP) programs

Minors who are caught in possession of alcohol may be required to attend Alcohol Education programs as a diversionary or educational measure. These programs are designed to inform minors about the legal and health consequences of underage drinking.

Substance abuse treatment programs

For individuals struggling with alcohol addiction or substance abuse issues, Alcohol Education may be part of a broader substance abuse treatment program. These programs often include counseling, therapy, and educational components to address the underlying causes of addiction and promote recovery.

Alcohol awareness courses

These courses may be offered by schools, colleges, or community organizations to educate individuals about responsible alcohol use, the potential risks and consequences of alcohol abuse, and harm reduction strategies.

Court-mandated programs

In some cases, individuals involved in alcohol-related legal cases, such as those related to assault or disorderly conduct, may be required to attend alcohol education classes as part of their sentence or probation.

3-Hour Alcohol and Drug Education Program

All those applying for a Maryland driver’s license are required to complete the 3-hour Alcohol and Drug Education Program before they can receive the license if they currently possess a driver’s license from another country or only an Armed Forces License. Those who have a driver’s license from another U.S. state, a U.S. territory, Canada, or the Yukon territory are not required to attend this program.

12-Hour Alcohol Education (AEP) Program Requirements

Maryland offers a 12-hour Alcohol Education Program (AEP) for individuals who are required to complete alcohol education as a result of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Impaired) offense. The purpose of this program is to provide education and intervention related to alcohol use and impaired driving. Here are some general requirements and information about the 12-hour AEP program in Maryland:

• Eligibility: Individuals who have been convicted of a DUI or DWI offense in Maryland may be required by the court to complete a 12-hour Alcohol Education Program as part of their sentence or as a condition of probation.
• Program Content: The 12-hour AEP typically covers various topics related to alcohol use and impaired driving, including:
  • The legal consequences of DUI/DWI offenses
  • The physical and psychological effects of alcohol
  • Strategies for responsible alcohol consumption
  • The risks and consequences of impaired driving
  • Information on Maryland’s laws and penalties related to DUI/DWI
• Attendance: Participants are required to attend all 12 hours of the program to complete it successfully. Missing any part of the program may result in the individual not meeting their court-ordered requirements.
• Cost: Participants are typically required to pay a fee to enroll in the 12-hour AEP program. The cost can vary depending on the program provider.
• Certificate of Completion: Upon successful completion of the program, participants may receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is often required by the court to demonstrate compliance with the program requirements.
• Duration: The 12-hour AEP program is typically conducted over several sessions, with each session lasting a specific number of hours. Participants must attend all scheduled sessions to fulfill the program’s requirements.

If you are ordered to attend a Maryland alcohol education class or program, it’s crucial that you follow the instructions provided by the court and to choose a program provider that is approved by the Maryland Department of Transportation or another relevant authority. To ensure that your rights are protected, you should also consult with an experienced Bowie or Crofton criminal defense attorney.

At Carey Law Office, we work hard to protect our clients’ rights as they move through the criminal justice system. We have had an office in Bowie since 1981, and we have a new office in Crofton. Please fill out this contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with a criminal defense lawyer today – we serve clients in Bowie, Crofton, Owings, and Calvert County.