Merced County's Veterans' Treatment Court, launched in 2017, gives a veteran with a qualifying disorder from service alternative sentencing with a VA-designed treatment programme of 12 to 24 months, after which the case may be reduced, dismissed or terminated. Probation, the District Attorney, the Public Defender, Behavioral Health and VA run it together.
California's veterans treatment courts rest on Penal Code section 1170.9 and military diversion on section 1001.80; see the California entry. Merced County's Collaborative Courts page: "Launched in 2017, The Veterans' Treatment Court was designed to assist veterans who suffer from qualifying disorders due to military service. The veteran receives an alternative sentencing, comprehensive monitored rehabilitative services, and mental health and substance abuse treatment."
How it works. "The Veterans' Treatment Court is a collaborative program that includes the Probation Department, District Attorney's Office, Public Defender's Office, Behavior Health and Recovery Services, and the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The veteran must agree to participate in the Veterans' Treatment Court, and the duration of the program is between 12 to 24 months. The veteran undergoes a treatment program designed and provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Upon successful completion, the veteran's case could be reduced, dismissed, or terminated."
Referral. Through defence counsel or the Public Defender in the criminal case. Because treatment is VA's, a veteran who is not VA-eligible should ask counsel how treatment would be provided.
Thresholds
Thresholds for Merced County Veterans' Treatment Court
Gate
Rule
Veteran with a qualifying disorder from service
Voluntary; a disorder from military service is the test. No rating is needed.
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Disclaimer
VetTOC is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Information is for reference only and is not an eligibility determination. Verify with VA, the relevant state or territory, or an accredited VSO.