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March 24, 2010 - The majority of the 300,000 veterans in Southwestern Pennsylvania live in Allegheny County. Logically, then, Pittsburgh was the best location to host a court for veterans in legal trouble.
The Allegheny County Veterans Court's first session was held in November of 2009 and currently boasts an enrollment of almost 24 veterans. Once the court becomes more well known and publicized, the number of veterans enrolled is expected to surge dramatically.
The court's goal is to aid veterans that have become embroiled in legal trouble by offering them a variety of services. So far this approach has turned out very well. Based on the court's success, U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter, (D-Pa.) headed up a Congressional field hearing to look into the advantages of putting veteran's courts into operation state and nation wide.
Veterans charged with both misdemeanors and felonies are eligible to enroll in the court. As part of the adjudication process, veterans are placed on probation and partnered with a mentor who provides insight and help over the process.
Probably the main criticism against these courts is they are giving veterans preferential treatment. Panel members at the congressional hearing do not agree with this assessment. Their belief is veterans are owed a great debt, this program goes towards repaying that debt, and it is not a slap on the wrist.
Veterans face punishments more severe than regular criminals being placed on probation. The focus of the court is not just on the veteran. This program is keeping people out of jail and saving taxpayer money. The veteran's court helps people and saves money at the same time.
The achievement of similar courts gives hope veteran's court will find similar success. There are currently 3 veteran's courts in session in Pittsburgh, Scranton, and Philadelphia. Given the large amount of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, very few of them seek help. When they get into trouble because of problems readjusting, the veteran's court is there to help.
Soldiers can return home with a number of conditions, injuries, and aggravated preexisting conditions. If you believe you have a service-connected physical or psychological injury you may be entitled to Veterans’ Disability Compensation.
At LaVan and Neidenberg, we are determined to secure veterans their rightful disability compensation and disability rating. We wrote this book for you! In it you will find valuable tips on how to navigate the claims process and avoid common pitfalls. Request your FREE copy today!
Or, complete our short contact form or call us directly at 1.888.234.5758 to schedule your FREE case evaluation.
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