Veterans Treatment Court
Volunteers of America’s Veterans Court in partnership with the Caddo District Courts and Overton Brooks VA Medical Center helps non-violent veteran offenders have a chance to work through their issues, get sober and earn a clean slate.
In the one-year treatment program, veterans are able to work out their sentence by attending meetings, counseling, and community service, while rebuilding relationships and independence. In the end, the conviction will be cleared from the veteran’s record if they successfully complete the program.
Who is eligible? Veterans diagnosed substance abuse as well as mental illness, PTSD, or other trauma. Must have needs that can be addressed by the program and a willingness to participate!
Who is not eligible? Anyone with a history of serious or repetitive violence; incompetent to stand trial; sex offenders; accused of crimes in which a weapon was used.
How does a Veteran enroll? A Veteran must be referred to the Court by the VA, the Probation Officer or the DA’s Office. After evaluation, the Veteran will plead guilty to the offense and then work out his or her sentence with the court.
What is the structure of the program? The four phase program will take about a year to complete:
1. Develop treatment plan and goals with your case manager
2. Treatment – engage in counseling and taking steps to achieve stated goals
3. Community Reintegration – Examine treatment and start focusing on daily living skills as you prepare to return to the community
4. Graduation – transition to fully independent living without a criminal record
Have questions or need help?
Contact Gernine Mailhes, Program Coordinator.