About Veterans Treatment Court

In 2008, the first Veterans Treatment Court was created in response to the growing number of veterans who have substance abuse problems and suffer from mental illness. Many of these issues are connected to the trauma of combat and other service-related experiences.

Veterans Treatment Courts are designed to address the particular needs of veterans who are involved in the criminal justice system. According to the Justice Department, there are approximately 140,000 veterans in Federal and State prisons. Of these veterans, approximately 60 percent are struggling with substance abuse and 25 percent admitted to being under the influence at the time of their offense.

A Model for Recovery

The treatment courts are modeled after drug courts and seek to treat veterans who have substance abuse problems, while helping ensure public safety. Combining treatment and personal accountability, the courts work to break the cycle of drug abuse and criminal behavior. The courts link veterans with programs, benefits and services they have earned after their service in the military that will help them undergo treatment.

Currently, there are approximately 90 operational Veterans Treatment Courts throughout the United States and more are on their way.

To learn more about Veterans Treatment Courts, visit www.va.gov.