Did the judge just order you to take anger management? Is the timeline unclear with how many court approved anger management classes you are to take, how often, and when you need to submit a report? Has it been frustrating to learn that there is a fee for each class? The information about court mandated anger management can be overwhelming and unclear. I will help you with your next steps to clarify what is requested.
The following is a practical guide to help you navigate through court-ordered anger management.
“The Courts Didn’t Give Me Any Paperwork”
When I speak to individuals needing to take anger management classes, I often hear callers say, “They never gave me any paperwork.” It’s understandable, given all that’s going on in the case. You’re trying to follow what is being requested, you’re handed some paperwork, return home, and are not ready to start the process. You leave the paperwork somewhere, which later seems to be misplaced, and by the time you need to reference the documents, they’re nowhere to be found.
The courts usually provide a court order or minute order, proof of enrollment requirement, information on when to start your anger management classes, along with the number of weeks required, and a list of court approved anger management classes.
Perhaps no one is telling you that you need to take classes once a week and enroll within three weeks of your court date. Anger management programs can often be misconstrued as how Alcoholics Anonymous works, where one can attend a daily meeting. Anger management is different from AA, which is led by a professional rather than a peer. Anger management programs are based on a skill-set model to offer new ways to approach situations.
What to Do Today When You Have To Take Court Ordered Anger Management
- Find your court details (case number, courthouse, probation officer, attorney). If it’s missing, contact your attorney, call your probation officer (if you’re on probation), visit the courthouse clerk’s office and ask for the minute order or proof of the judge’s order, or visit the online court case portal.
- Get started with your court ordered anger management classes today. Many courts expect enrollment within 21 days. It’s best not to wait and start the process sooner. You have more time selecting the preferred anger management program for you. More importantly, don’t delay the process. Too often, folks call us on a Sunday to enroll and need to show the court the following day that they have enrolled. There are steps to the process. Make the call during business hours, enroll (which can take 15 minutes), schedule the intake appointment (can take a week), and attend the intake appointment.
- Contact an approved anger management provider, especially one aligned with the CAAMP list, if your order requires it (California cases often do). Don’t risk wasting your time and finances with a program the court will not accept. So many folks get frustrated when they learn that the anger management class they took is not approved. They take the easy route of less time and a downloadable certificate, only to learn that the courts do not accept it. An anger management provider should be able to explain how their program works, whether they provide proof of enrollment, whether they provide progress reports, whether they meet CAAMP-related expectations, and the program and material they use to teach (ours is Anger Management Essentials).
- Enroll and start attending weekly anger management classes. Once per week is typical and often required. Missing the enrollment window can lead to non-compliance, which may result in a probation violation or additional court consequences. The court often expects you to show proof you started, not just that you “plan to start.”
- Track your attendance and keep copies of any enrollment/progress/completion documents. Enrollment/intake does not count as a class. Counselors can make errors and not keep accurate records. At Anger Management 818, participants keep track of their attendance; staff do as well, and a group sign-in is offered as a backup in case of any discrepancies. Ask your anger management program how they keep track of your attendance.
- Ask the clerk whether your court requires reports to be sent directly or if you can submit them yourself. Courts allow reports to be sent by fax, though participants sometimes prefer a record of their report. Find out your options so you’re not stuck without a report on the day of your court. Many anger management programs require a written request when needing reports, to allow ample time to prepare them.
If You’re Ready to Enroll in an Anger Management Program
If you’re dealing with a court or probation order and want help getting enrolled, you can start by contacting our office through our website, AngerManagement818.com.
The sooner you enroll, the easier it is to stay on track, meet court deadlines, and move forward with less stress.
Note: This article is general educational information and not legal advice. Your specific requirements (deadlines, number of sessions, reporting rules, approved provider list) depend on your court order and your case. If you’re unsure, confirm details with the court, probation, or your attorney.
Anita Avedian, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Anita Avedian, LMFT, is the President of Avedian Counseling Center, located in Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, and Glendale. She is very passionate about helping couples rebuild their relationship and to improve their intimacy, trust, and communication. With 25 years of therapy experience, including working with couples and individuals, Anita is seasoned in her work. Contact Avedian Counseling Center to learn more about our couple’s therapy and relationship support at (818) 383-1399. https://avediancounselingcenter.com/
