Ohio DUI: Probation question.

[GoNolzOhio]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Ohio

Hello,

I got a DUI in Ohio, 9/24/2010. Got attorney, plead no contest, paid fine for DUI, 12/2010. Went to Weekend Driver Intervention Program, 1/2011. There, the counseling firm putting on the program determined I needed an alcohol assessment.

I had that firm give me the alcohol assessment a few days later ($200). There, the counselor I was interviewed by determined I was in the middle stages of alcohol addiction, an absolutely ludicrous idea if one were to review my drinking habits since I turned about 25. In any event, she indicated she was going to RECOMMEND that I need "intensive outpatient treatment," which, of course, is not cheap.

The question I have is: does this "recommendation" have the force of law? It was not the court ordering the treatment, so can I avoid it by have my attorney offer me going to A.A. meetings, or even something like volunteering to have an ignition interlock installed in my car for the duration of my probation? I'd like to avoid the expense and time involved in this treatment.

Thanks for your response(s).What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[FlyingRon]

The recommendation is a recommendation.
It would depend on the probation terms and the probation department if you will be forced to act on the recommendation. Does this "consulting company" have any interest in the treatment program? If so, I'd sure have my lawyer be investigating that. Whether you can propose an alternative to the probation department or perhaps even the courts is something your lawyer will know.
Frankly AA is a poor substitute for someone who needs real help.