The Atkinson Lewis Sample Collection Process In the intricate landscape of drug and alcohol testing, the individuals responsible for sample collection serve as the cornerstone of the process. At Atkinson Lewis, we hold our sample collection team in the highest regard. They are the friendly faces guiding clients through what can be a daunting experience. Our sample collectors are not just skilled professionals in phlebotomy and hair collection. They also work with warmth and empathy. With years of experience under their belts, they possess the unique ability to alleviate any apprehensions clien ..read more

Cocaine – Implications for Family Court and Child Safety The UK is facing a troubling reality. It is “fast becoming the largest consumer of cocaine in Europe,” something previously highlighted by former UK Security Minister, Ben Wallace and backed up by a recent report into global cocaine use. With this surge in demand, the pressing question arises: are suppliers adulterating cocaine more than ever before, and if so, with what? In this article, we delve into the realm of cocaine cutting by examining trends in recently seized cocaine samples. We aim to shed light on this saturated market, espec ..read more

Does CBD Oil Show up on a drug test? In the complex landscape of CBD oil, its classification as a medicinal product in 2016 by the MHRA stirred the pot of controversy. While many champion its purported benefits, concerns persist, questioning whether the legalization of CBD oil is a slippery slope toward accepting more potent substances like THC. Unintentionally, this debate has cast an unexpected shadow over the Family Court system, where CBD oil finds itself unwittingly entangled in the web of drug test defences. Drug Testing and Medical Cannabis Prescriptions Unravelling the Misconceptions ..read more

Drug Testing and Medical Cannabis Prescriptions Medical cannabis has gained significant attention in recent years. Natural cannabis contains about 65 known cannabinoid constituents. THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive constituent associated with dependency, anxiety, and paranoia. How far back does a hair drug test go? The Misuse of Drugs Act (1971) classifies cannabis containing THC as a Class B illegal drug. However, a significant shift regarding medical cannabis containing high levels of THC occurred in the UK on 1 November 2018. High-THC ..read more

Hair Strand Testing in Family Law Cases In family law cases, accurate and timely testing is vital, especially concerning substance misuse issues involving one or both parents. Understanding the extent and pattern of drug or alcohol misuse is crucial in assessing risks to dependents. Hair strand testing is the gold standard forensic test to help identify a history of substance abuse. It relies on the fact that head hair grows about 1 cm per month, enabling the assessment of drug or alcohol use over a specific period based on the length of hair selected. Drug Hair Testing: For drug testing, two ..read more

Medical Interpretation’s Vital Role in Child Custody Substance Testing In the difficult realm of custody where disputes are complicated by substance misuse concerns, the Atkinson Lewis Medical Interpretation of Forensic Analysis (MIFA) provides a crucial tool, providing clarity and insight. From the initial collection of hair and blood samples, the meticulous lab analysis  of these and through to expert medical report, the MIFA offers a structured and comprehensive approach that aids understanding in these critical cases. Unveiling the Atkinson Lewis MIFA: At the core of both public and p ..read more

Understanding Drug and Alcohol Testing in Family Law Cases In family law proceedings, ensuring the safety and well-being of children takes precedence. One critical aspect involves evaluating potential substance misuse by parents or caregivers. Court-ordered drug and alcohol testing plays a pivotal role in assessing these circumstances, and guiding decisions concerning child custody and safeguarding. Why is Drug Testing Ordered in Child Custody Cases? Court-ordered drug tests are often requested to evaluate potential substance misuse and ensure a child’s safety. This assessment aims to determin ..read more

Enhancing Child Welfare: The Crucial Role of Repeat Drug Testing in Family Court Proceedings In family court cases involving custody, substance abuse can significantly impact decisions about a child’s welfare. When it comes to evaluating a parent’s capability for custody, drug testing plays a crucial role. While initial drug testing might provide valuable information, repeat drug testing offers numerous benefits to safeguard the well-being of children involved in these delicate legal proceedings. Repeat Hair Testing For a Comprehensive Overview Repeat hair testing enhances the accuracy and rel ..read more

Going Beyond Results: How Atkinson Lewis’ Comprehensive Approach to Drug and Alcohol Testing Ensures Informed Family Court Judgments Alcohol and drug testing in family law cases is a sensitive issue. In the UK, it is governed by the court system’s unique laws and procedures. It is something that should be pursued when there are concerns about the welfare and safety of a child. In this blog, we delve into when it is appropriate to request drug and alcohol testing. When to Request Alcohol and Drug Testing: 1. Substantiated Concerns for Drug and Alcohol Testing: Prioritising Child Welfare and Saf ..read more

Top Reasons to Choose Atkinson Lewis for Drug and Alcohol Testing Family law solicitors often find themselves in the thick of complex legal cases involving drugs and alcohol. When it comes to testing, especially using hair samples, it’s crucial to ensure it’s rock solid. In this blog, we’ll outline why Atkinson Lewis is the ideal choice for reliable drug and alcohol testing in family law cases. How hair drug testing can identify recreational vs dependent misuse Reasons to work with Atkinson Lewis Same Day Sample Collection Appointments: Atkinson Lewis understands the urgency associated with ..read more