Paul Collette, MS, LADC
DUI & Substance Use Evaluator
Compass Recovery & Counseling, LLC
COURT-ORDERED A
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
EVALUATION?
I spent 24 years as a federal probation officer, including six years leading federal drug court, working directly with judges, defense attorneys, and prosecutors across New England. For the past seven-plus years in private practice, I've conducted DUI and substance use evaluations for local and state courts throughout the region. I know exactly what the court is looking for — and I know how to write a report that serves your client's best interests.
Defense attorneys: I offer same-week appointments for your clients, clear and timely written reports, and direct availability to discuss cases. I've been on the other side of the courtroom — I speak your language.
Paul Collette, MS, LADC / LADC1
Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor
Compass Recovery & Counseling, LLC
24
Years Federal Probation Officer
6
Years Leading Federal Drug Court
3
States Licensed
7+
Years Private Practice
I'VE BEEN ON BOTH SIDES
OF THE COURTROOM
Most evaluators have never set foot inside a courtroom. I spent 30 years there on the state and federal level. That experience changes how I write reports, how I communicate with attorneys, and how I prepare clients for what's ahead.
Federal Probation Officer — 24 Years
I worked directly with federal judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys across the New England region for nearly a quarter century. I know the language of the court, the standards judges apply, and what a well-written evaluation report looks like from the bench's perspective. That foundation now informs every evaluation I conduct in private practice.
Led Federal Drug Court — 6 Years
For six years I ran the federal drug court program — the most intensive court-supervised treatment program in the federal system. I designed treatment plans, coordinated with defense counsel, and reported directly to the judge. I understand what therapeutic accountability looks like inside a court framework.
Placed Hundreds of Clients in Treatment
Throughout my federal career, I worked closely with defense attorneys to help their clients find and enter appropriate treatment programs throughout New England. I know the regional treatment landscape, the providers that courts respect, and how to match a client to the right level of care.
7+ Years in Private Practice
Since leaving federal service, I've conducted DUI and substance use evaluations for local and state courts throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont. I understand what each court system expects, how to write a report that holds up to scrutiny, and how to communicate findings clearly to attorneys, probation officers, and judges.
"Most evaluators have never set foot inside a courtroom. I spent 30 years there on the state and federal level. That experience changes how I write reports, how I communicate with attorneys, and how I prepare clients for what's ahead."
— Paul Collette, MS, LADC / LADC1
A RELIABLE EVALUATOR
YOU CAN COUNT ON
When you refer a client to me, you're not handing them off to someone who will slow down your case or produce a report that creates more problems than it solves. I've worked alongside defense counsel for decades. I understand your timeline, your client's needs, and what the court expects.
Same-week appointments
I typically see clients the same day they call, and almost always within the same week. Pre-sentencing deadlines don't scare me — call me and we'll make it work.
Clear, court-ready reports
My reports are written to be understood by judges, not just clinicians. They address the questions courts actually ask: severity of use, treatment needs, prognosis, and recommendations.
Direct access — always
You get my direct number. If you need to discuss a case, ask a clinical question, or coordinate on timing, call me. I answer the same day.
Licensed in CT, MA & VT
I'm licensed as an LADC in Connecticut and an LADC1 in Massachusetts, and licensed in Vermont. Virtual evaluations are available statewide — no travel required for your client.
Attorney Referral — How It Works
Call or email me with your client's situation and timeline.
I schedule the evaluation — usually same day or next day.
I conduct the clinical interview (in-person or virtual).
I deliver a written report to you, the court, or probation — wherever it needs to go.
I remain available for any follow-up questions from you or the court.
WHAT TO EXPECT
FROM THE PROCESS
A court-ordered substance abuse evaluation is a clinical interview — not a test you pass or fail. Here's what it actually looks like.
Clinical Interview
We meet — in person or virtually — for about an hour. I'll ask about your history with alcohol and substances, the circumstances of the charge, and your life more broadly. Be honest. It produces a better report.
Screening Tools
I use validated clinical questionnaires to assess the severity of any substance use concerns. These aren't pass/fail — they help me form an accurate clinical picture.
Written Report
I prepare a written report with my findings and recommendations. It goes to your attorney, the court, or probation — wherever it's needed. I'll coordinate with you on where it should go.
What Comes Next
Depending on my recommendation, you may be referred to an education program, outpatient counseling, or no further treatment at all. I'll explain everything clearly before the report is submitted.
First-time DUI offenders may be eligible for the Alcohol Education Program (AEP), a diversionary program that can result in dismissal of the charge. A substance abuse evaluation is required as part of the AEP intake. I can complete that evaluation and provide all required documentation.
A 24D disposition (continuance without a finding / CWOF) for a first-offense OUI typically requires a substance abuse evaluation and completion of a Driver Alcohol Education Program (DAEP). I provide the evaluation and coordinate with your attorney and the court on documentation.
Vermont DUI cases often require a substance abuse evaluation through the court or the DMV as a condition of license reinstatement. I'm licensed in Vermont and conduct virtual evaluations statewide — no travel required.
CREDENTIALS & BACKGROUND
Everything you need to know before referring a client or scheduling an evaluation.
MS, LADC / LADC1
Master's degree; Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor in CT and MA; Licensed in VT
24-Year Federal Career
U.S. Federal Probation Officer serving the New England region
Federal Drug Court
Led the federal drug court program for 6 years — the most intensive court-supervised treatment track in the federal system
Treatment Placement
Placed hundreds of clients in treatment programs throughout CT, MA, VT, NH, RI, and ME
DOT Qualified SAP
Also qualified as a DOT Substance Abuse Professional under 49 CFR Part 40 for all 6 DOT-regulated industries
Virtual Evaluations
Secure video evaluations available throughout CT, MA, and VT — accepted by courts and probation departments
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to the questions I hear most often from clients and attorneys.
READY TO SCHEDULE
AN EVALUATION?
Call me directly or send a message below. I respond the same day — weekdays and weekends.
Call Paul Directly
860-502-0917
Same-day response guaranteed
Email Paul
[email protected]
Attorneys: include client's timeline