AA

[JLSatty]

In a message dated 97-12-27 09:21:11 EST, you write:

<<
         Let me assume that you're imagining a probationer who knows what AA
 is and knows he doesn't want to attend meetings, and a judge wanting him to
 go anyway.  That would be an extreme case, although I'm sure it happens. >>

My practice is about 80% criminal defense.  Included in that are a significant
number of DUI and drug possession cases.  In Alabama, for almost any
possession conviction, or DUI second or subsequent offense,  the punishment
will include mandatory AA, court ordered under threat of jail.  In 24 years of
practice I have yet to have a client who wanted to go to  AA *unless* he saw
it as a way to stay out of jail.

Certainly, I have also had clients who, for personal  reasons, saw the need to
get clean and sober, and I have directed them to any number of programs, after
an assessment by a CAC (Certified Addictions Counselor).  Some go through
programs with AA components, some do not.  None start because they are court
ordered.

Again I ask--do good results allow the court to order someone to a religious
program.

Joel L. Sogol
Attorney at Law
609 28th Ave.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401
205-345-0966
JLSatty at aol.com