Hey Aussie,
they will find ways to declare that no one is forced to shun..
I've been out for years, but I think it's is still a disfellowshipping offense to associated with anyone who has left. They've changed the wording to cover their sorry asses in court, but the effect remains the same. X is no longer a Jehovah's Witness. If you are caught associating with X, you will be considered no longer one of Jehovah's Witnesses.
If they were forced to abandon this practice legally, I believe people would leave in DROVES. Just look how many around here just attend and go through the motions so they won't lose their entire family?
The comment in the article about so many being married to other witnesses? That can be proved from their own publications as well. Dating is prohibited, you are strongly urged to "marry only in the Lord"