Athens County Municipal Court Underage Drinkers Diversion Program
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Q: Can I do my community service in my hometown?
A: No.  All  twelve hours must be done in Athens County.  If you can drink here, you can work here.
Q:  I don't feel like working on Saturday.  Can I show up on another Saturday?
A: No.  The eight hour workday is assigned, and you must be present.  If you have what you feel is a compelling reason not to attend, contact Mrs. Norwood.
Q: Can I pay my fees on my diversion workday?
A:  No.  Although this is considered a court appearance, the court itself is closed and no business is transacted on that day.
Q: Do I have to take the alcohol class in Athens?
A: No.  If you can find a class is comparable, contact Mary Norwood and discuss it with her.  Once you get her approval, you may enroll in that class.
Q:  If I finish all the requirements early (alcohol class, 12 hours community service in Athens, reading assignment, and the fines and costs) do I have to come back for my court date?
A: No.  The date that you are given to return is called an enforcement date.  When you turn in proof of completion of community sevice and alcohol education, satisfactory answers to the book questions, and pay your fee and court costs, the case is finished and will be dismissed at the end of the 90 days so long as there are no further alcohol violations.

Q:  I need more time.  How do I apply for an extension of my diversion date?

A:  There are NO extensions to diversion.  Ninety days is ample time to complete all the elements of the program.

Q:  If I have a question about the program or a problem, should I call the Diversion Officer?

A:  Yes.  You, not your friends or parents, should call.  This case is your responsibility.

Q:  A friend and I were charged on the same night and we have the same diversion date.  Can we read the book together and hand in the answers as a joint project?

A:  By all means, read and discuss the book with a friend, but the answers to the questions should be personalized by your experience.  Only you know how you feel.

Q:  If I don't like the date that is assigned, all I have to do is call the Diversion Officer and, for $50, she will reschedule me, correct?

A:  No.  You will show up on your assigned date at the assigned time.  If you have a legitimate, compelling reason you may be allowed to reschedule and you will be charged a fee of $50 for that.  Permission to miss your assigned date is given on a case by case basis.  It is not automatic and should not be assumed