State of the DA (was:Fear as a Crime (Re: muggle baiting )

[Hagrid]

No: HPFGUIDX 156275

> > > zeroirregardless:
> > 
> > > If DA members repel a mass Dementor attack in  Book 7, we could
> > > look back on the DA as vital.
> > 
> > Julie:
> >
> > Though if the DA members specifically use Patronuses to repel
> > Dementors, you may be right. Especially if this turns out to be 
> > the  most effective method of dealing with those soul-sucking     
> > monsters.
> >  
> > Julie, who really, *really* wants to know Snape's method of  
> > repelling Dementors, and is hoping to find out in Book 7. 
> > 
> Mike now:
> 
> Occlumency. I'll bet that's what Snape thinks works better against 
> dementors. No need to conjure a *very* happy thought. Saves you from 
> their draining your energy and allows you to keep your situational 
> awareness. <SNIP>
> 
> If the dementors do become a big problem, and IMHO they will play a 
> big role in book 7, then just learning how to cast a patronus charm 
> should give the ex-DA kids a big head start.

Aussie:
"When you meet a dementor, remember, they are looking to take happy
thoughts. So make sure you are with someone happier than you. The
dementor will attack them and you can escape."  

Great personal defence that Snape may teach.

But the patronus is a charm "well beyond" OWL level that even well
accomplished wizards have problems cunjuring according to Lupin as he
started teaching Harry. That made the DA an incredible asset to
families in Dementor breeding grounds (ie: anywhere in UK)