Regional Veteran's Treatment Court
The Establishment of a Regional Veteran’s Treatment Court and what it means to justice involved Veteran’s in Maryland
At Atkinson Law, our firm advocates for justice system involved Veterans. With over 20 years of experience, our attorneys have represented Veterans charged with crimes, involved with protective orders and numerous other issues. Today we are talking about the recent expansion of the Baltimore City Veteran’s Treatment Court into a Regional Veteran’s Treatment Court that includes Baltimore County, Carroll County, Howard County and Harford County.
Veterans face unique challenges upon returning to civilian life. Many struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, or mental health issues, which can lead to encounters with the criminal justice system. Recognizing these challenges, Baltimore City established a Veteran Treatment Court (VTC) to address the underlying issues that contribute to veterans' criminal behavior, offering them a pathway to rehabilitation rather than incarceration. Senior Judge Halee F. Weinstein, a US Army Veteran herself, spearheaded the creating of the Baltimore City Veteran Treatment Court in 2014. The recent expansion of the program into Baltimore, Howard, Harford and Carroll counties marks a significant step in broadening its impact and accessibility.
What Are Veteran Treatment Courts?
Veteran Treatment Courts are specialized court programs designed to serve veterans who have committed non-violent crimes and are struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. These courts provide a structured environment where veterans receive treatment, counseling, and mentorship, often involving peer veterans who understand their unique experiences. By focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment, VTCs aim to reduce recidivism, improve mental health outcomes, and help veterans reintegrate into society. Participation in the Veterans Treatment Court is voluntary.
Specialized Veteran Substance Abuse Treatment Options
One of the core components of Veteran Treatment Courts is addressing substance abuse issues that many veterans face. The program offers specialized treatment options, including:
Tailored Rehabilitation Programs: These programs are designed to address the unique challenges veterans face, such as coping with trauma and transitioning to civilian life.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): For veterans struggling with opioid or alcohol dependency, MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to achieve sustainable recovery.
Group Therapy with Fellow Veterans: Peer support groups provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding that is often lacking in traditional treatment settings.
Holistic Approaches: Programs may include mindfulness training, yoga, and other holistic therapies to complement traditional treatment methods and promote overall well-being.
These specialized options ensure that veterans receive the comprehensive care they need to overcome substance abuse and regain control of their lives.
Where Veterans Can Get Help
Veterans seeking assistance can access support through the following resources:
Veteran Treatment Courts: Contact local courts in Baltimore City, Harford, or Carroll counties to inquire about eligibility and enrollment in the program.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA offers a wide range of services, including mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and PTSD support. Visit the VA website or contact the nearest VA medical center for more information. Some VA facilities that provide services to Maryland Vets include the VA Medical Center in Martinsburg, WV, the VA Medical Center in Perry Point, and the VA Medical Center in Downtown Baltimore, Maryland.
Community-Based Organizations: Nonprofits such as the Wounded Warrior Project and AMVETS provide resources, support groups, and treatment options tailored to veterans' needs. Other long term treatment options can also include faith based organizations such as Helping Up Missions in Baltimore.
Crisis Hotlines: Veterans in crisis can contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (Press 1) or chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net for immediate support.
By leveraging these resources, veterans can find the help they need to overcome their challenges and rebuild their lives.
The Success of Baltimore City’s Veteran Treatment Court
Since its inception, Baltimore City’s Veteran Treatment Court has demonstrated remarkable success. The program has:
Reduced Recidivism: Participants are significantly less likely to reoffend compared to those processed through traditional courts.
Improved Mental Health Outcomes: By addressing PTSD, depression, and other service-related conditions, the program has helped participants achieve greater stability and well-being.
Strengthened Community Ties: Veterans are supported by a network of mentors and service providers, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
These outcomes highlight the importance of expanding the program to reach more veterans in need.
The Significance of the Expansion
The decision to extend the Veteran Treatment Court to Baltimore, Howard, Harford and Carroll counties is both timely and necessary. These areas are home to a significant number of veterans who may benefit from the program but previously lacked access due to geographic limitations. The expansion brings several key advantages:
Enhanced Accessibility: Veterans in these counties can now access tailored support that previously was only available to cases that arose in Baltimore City.
Broader Impact: With more participants, the program can collect richer data to refine its approach and demonstrate its effectiveness on a larger scale.
Stronger Regional Collaboration: The expansion fosters partnerships among local governments, nonprofits, and veteran organizations across the region, creating a more cohesive support network.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the expansion is a significant achievement, it also presents challenges. Ensuring adequate funding, staffing, and resources will be critical to maintaining the program’s high standards. Additionally, outreach efforts must be intensified to inform eligible veterans about the program and encourage participation.
However, these challenges also present opportunities. By engaging local communities and stakeholders, the program can build a robust support system that benefits not only veterans but the broader community. Collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions, such as mobile outreach units or virtual counseling sessions, to further enhance accessibility.
The expansion of the Veteran Treatment Court into Harford and Carroll counties represents a pivotal moment in supporting the veteran community. By addressing the root causes of criminal behavior and offering a path to rehabilitation, these courts honor the sacrifices of those who have served while promoting public safety and community well-being. As this initiative grows, it serves as a model for how specialized courts can create transformative change, one veteran at a time.
At Atkinson Law we are here to help. Contact us today (410) 882-9595 to set up an appointment to discuss your case.