Veterans Treatment Courts in Washington State

"Supporting those who have defended us." - Judge Brett Buckley

A Veterans Treatment Court is a regular court dealing with certain crimes in which the defendant is a veteran with mental health issues that get in the way of  rehabilitation. They use veterans as mentors to help defendants engage in treatment and counseling, as well as partner with local Veterans Affairs offices to ensure that participants receive proper benefits.

A Veterans Court is not a free ride; you still have to accept the consequences of your behavior.  However they acknowledgement of the special issues and capabilities of America's veterans, such as discipline and camaraderie, to work on the past and to prevent future problems.
The following counties currently host Veterans Courts:

• Clark 
• King 
• Kitsap 
• Pierce 
• Spokane 
• Stevens 
• Thurston
• If your county does not have one, and you think it's a good idea, talk with your county court system about setting one up. You might copy this proposal from Oregon. Veterans And Friends will help.

Each county has its own rules based on its own needs. A typical example is Spokane:

"...Who do we serve? A former or current member of the United States Armed Forces, Guard or Reserves. As a former member, the Veteran must have been Honorably discharged or discharged “Generally” under honorable conditions. The Veterans Court may accept individuals with a diagnosis of PTSD, TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) or MST (Military Sexual Trauma) as a result of their military services. The Veterans Court may also accept individuals who are considered “combat” veterans* with substance use disorders. Potential candidates with a diagnosis of PTSD, TBI, or MST will be given the highest priority.
"Criminal Case Criteria: Only those individuals whose cases are Spokane County misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor are eligible for acceptance into the Veterans court pending a review by the Veterans Court Team. The Team consists of the Judge, Prosecutor, Public Defender, Probation Officer, Veterans Court Coordinator and Veteran’s Administration staff. Felony reductions plead in District Court may be referred to the Veterans Court for probation monitoring subject to a staffing review by the Team.
"Exclusions: Convictions for sexual and serious violent offenses...."

Other counties may do things a little differently, but Spokane is typical. The process is still new, but studies from other states (e.g. Minnesota) show evidence that it works!

More Information

• Washington State Therapeutic Courts - Veterans Courts are a variation on the "Therapeutic Court" model, which was pioneered with drug courts.