DUI Defendant's Guide

The Nevada Victim Impact Panel (VIP).

If your Nevada DUI sentence includes attendance at a Victim Impact Panel, here's what it is, how it's different from DUI School, and how to satisfy the court requirement.

What is the Victim Impact Panel?

The Victim Impact Panel (VIP) is a court-ordered presentation where people convicted of DUI hear directly from victims, family members of victims, and first responders. The goal is simple: connect the abstract idea of impaired driving to its real human consequences. Most panels last about two hours and end with the issuance of a certificate of attendance.

VIP vs. DUI School — at a glance

DUI School
Court-approved educational class. Multi-hour curriculum. Online, Zoom, or in person. Offered by Northern Nevada Associates in Elko.
Victim Impact Panel
One-time presentation. Typically hosted by MADD or another court-authorized provider. Not the same requirement as DUI School.

Who hosts the Nevada VIP?

In Nevada, the Victim Impact Panel is most often hosted by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) or another court-authorized organization. Northern Nevada Associates provides court-approved DUI School, but does not host the VIP itself. Larry Robb is happy to point you to the right resource if your court paperwork is unclear.

How to satisfy the requirement

  1. Check your court paperwork for the specific VIP provider the judge approved.
  2. Visit MADD's Nevada VIP page (or the provider listed on your paperwork) to see the current schedule. Sessions are usually offered both in person and online.
  3. Register, pay the panel's small fee, and attend the full session.
  4. Submit your certificate of attendance to the court before your deadline. Keep a copy for yourself.

Common questions

Does completing DUI School satisfy the VIP requirement?
No. The Victim Impact Panel and DUI School are two separate court requirements. You generally need to complete both.
Where in Elko is the VIP held?
Locations and schedules change. Check current MADD Nevada listings or the provider named on your court paperwork.
Can I attend the VIP online?
Yes — MADD Nevada offers online Victim Impact Panel sessions in addition to in-person panels.
How long does it take?
Most panels run about two hours, after which you receive your certificate of attendance.

Still need DUI School?

Northern Nevada Associates offers Nevada court-approved DUI School online, by live Zoom, or in person in Elko — same certificate, sent directly to your court.

See DUI School options

This page is general information only. Always confirm requirements, providers, and deadlines with your court and your attorney.