Veterans Courts Poised to ‘Exponentially Increase,’ Backer Says
Special courts set up to help veterans caught up in the criminal justice system are increasing in popularity.
The idea is to divert veterans accused of minor crimes into drug treatment or job training, allowing them to avoid jail time or fines, USA Today reports. In the last two years, 22 cities and counties have opened veterans courts, and at least 39 others are planned for next year, the story says.
Paul Freese, a Los Angeles lawyer who advises the ABA’s Commission on Homelessness and Poverty, told USA Today that the special courts got started after judges and lawyers saw a growing number of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or substance abuse problems.
Many veterans charged with minor offense such as sleeping in public or loitering are homeless, Freese says. When these offenders don’t pay fines or appear in court, judges issues warrants that prevent them from getting jobs, housing and benefits, he says. The courts can help by coordinating with the Department of Veterans Affairs or other service providers to provide drug rehab and other services.
“I think we’re at a critical juncture where these courts can exponentially increase,” he tells USA Today.
Related coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “ACLU Likes Veterans Court—If It Doesn’t Include Special Sentencing Deals”
ABAJournal.com: “Charles J. Hynes: Jail Breaker”
