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      “Diversion” is a hot topic in Bar discipline circles.  State Senator John Burton (D-San Francisco), a champion of the small and solo practitioner, is backing legislation to create an alcohol and drug diversion program that may allow eligible attorneys to avoid or lower discipline in certain circumstances. The legislation is modeled on a program which has been available to California doctors for the last 20 years or so.

     Attorneys who participate in the program are entitled to complete confidentiality, and can participate in the program by self-referral, or referral from bar prosecutors or the State Bar Court.

     Criteria for acceptance into the program are expected to be stringent, and will require a five-year commitment to a lifestyle to promote ongoing sobriety.  Those accepted into the program will be required to pay all expenses related to treatment and recovery.  Those unable to pay may be eligible for financial assistance.

     For more detailed information, see the March, 2001 issue of the California Bar Journal.  If you have a substance abuse problem and desire confidential support and assistance from fellow lawyers, you may wish to contact the Other Bar at (800) 222-0767.