MIFA: Your Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Drug and Alcohol Tests

Drug and alcohol hair tests are recognised and accepted in family courts – but they involve complex science, and many factors influence how results are interpreted.

Understanding and interpreting each factor is crucial. This is where the expertise of a psychiatrist becomes indispensable, particularly when they contribute to the Atkinson Lewis MIFA (Medical Interpretation of Forensic Analysis).

Although our medical reports are more comprehensive than others, we understand that receiving a test result often marks the beginning of a case, not the end.

To help you navigate this complexity, Atkinson Lewis provides expert support after medical reports (MIFAs) are issued.

How hair drug testing can identify recreational vs dependent misuse

What is The Atkinson Lewis MIFA?

The Atkinson Lewis MIFA stands out in its approach to handling significant concerns in custody cases. Unlike traditional reports, the MIFA offers a comprehensive guide to provide a clear, structured, and legally sound analysis. It goes beyond, offering in-depth analysis outside of just showing the findings.

Key Features of the MIFA:

• Comprehensive Evaluation:
  MIFA covers relevant aspects of substance misuse, its impact on parenting, and the child’s well-being.

• Clear Reporting:
  The report is easy to understand, ensuring all parties, including the court, grasp the findings.

• Actionable Recommendations:
  If misuse is found, MIFA provides specific recommendations for timely medical intervention.

• Improving Decision-Making:
  MIFA’s structured approach aids courts in making informed decisions, prioritising the child’s best interests.

Why you should use the MIFA in your Family Law Case

The MIFA includes:

Transparent Analysis:
The MIFA delivers a clear and thorough examination of drug and alcohol use, detailing the extent and effects of misuse.

Legal Robustness:
The report is designed to be legally robust, providing dependable evidence that can effectively influence custody decisions.

Child’s Best Interest:
By presenting actionable recommendations for managing substance misuse, the MIFA highlights the urgency of safeguarding and enhancing the child’s well-being.

How parents with drug and alcohol problems impact children

How We Support You:

1. Immediate Assistance – Talk to Us

For urgent questions, give us a call. Speaking directly with one of our experts is the quickest way to get answers, especially if you’re preparing for court. We aim to return calls as soon as possible to provide timely and effective support.

Our telephone number is: 01792 578623

2. Detailed Clarifications – Email Support

When time allows or you need written explanations, please email us. We break down the reports in clear, straightforward language to ensure that both you and the court understand what they mean. Normally, there’s no extra charge for clarification of results.

However, if new information from donors arises that could impact the interpretation, we offer additional guidance and support from our psychiatrist. For this service, we charge per hour within LAA (Legal Aid Agency) rates.

Please email us at: enquiries@atkinsonlewis.co.uk

3. Expert Testimony – Call Upon Us

Occasionally, courts require an expert to provide oral testimony. Atkinson Lewis can send a qualified expert to present clear and impartial evidence remotely or in person. Our experts have years of experience and are trained for court appearances.

For more on drug testing and our medical review process, click here.