Who's been a part of a Veterans Treatment Court? What are your thoughts?

1SG Dan Thorstad — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 12:29:18 -0400

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 12:44 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 12:44:23 -0400

I have not been a part of one, but I have set through briefings on them. In theory I think it is a great idea and option for a Veteran to get back on his/her feet. In practice, I think it could be over whelming and/or could not work well due to a Veteran may not want to admit to being a Vet if it could hurt him long run (depends on checks from VA to survive). These are just my thoughts. Hope we are talking about the same kind of court.....

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2017 2:19 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 14:19:30 -0400

With the right attention and support, a Veteran can find care and get back on his feet, instead of going to jail. Far better to get them help then locking them up in a cage.

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Aug 18 at 2017 3:55 PM

AN Christopher Crayne — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 15:55:23 -0400

I have been through Veterans' Treatment Court. My experience from the program is a positive one, although it is intensive, and you have to work the system. If you work full time it does present a possible problem with your work place on getting time off. There is a mentor assigned to you and that person is from your branch of service, they help you all the way through with regards to court appearances, needs, and questions, etc. In the first three months you have two court dates a month, then it tapers to once or twice a month in about six months, if you are doing as the court instructed. There may be drug and alcohol testing done randomly up to twice a week. Pay the fees and do the community support on time monthly, and after six months you may get the testing removed, if it was required. At the end of the program you may receive completion certificates from your senator,a challenge coin, court documents that show the case sealed and closed. This is from Nevada and my experience, make sure to look into your Veterans Court program where you are.