Special Courts Deal With Special Problems Of Veterans

Veterans deserve special treatment for the sacrifices they have made in serving their country.

They also often have special problem as a result of their military experience, and that’s why there is a growing trend across the country to create special courts to deal with ex-servicemen and women.

“Most veterans are strengthened by their military service, but the combat experience has unfortunately left a growing number of veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury,” according to a website devoted to Veterans Treatment Courts.

The site estimates that one veteran out of every five has symptoms of a mental health disorder or cognitive impairment. One in six who served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom suffer from a substance abuse issue.

“Research continues to draw a link between substance abuse and combat–related mental illness,” the article continues. “Left untreated, mental health disorders common among veterans can directly lead to involvement in the criminal justice system.

“The Veterans Treatment Court model requires regular court appearances … as well as mandatory attendance at treatment sessions and frequent and random testing for substance use. Veterans respond favorably to this structured environment given their past experiences in the armed forces. However, a few will struggle and it is exactly those veterans who need a Veterans Treatment Court program the most. Without this structure, these veterans will reoffend and remain in the criminal justice system.”

“Veterans Treatment Courts seek to treat veterans suffering from a substance abuse and/or mental health disorder, while helping ensure public safety,” notes a press release from the White House. “These special courts combine rigorous treatment and personal accountability, with the goal of breaking the cycle of drug use and criminal behavior.”