procedural guides

California’s Veterans’ Courts – Making a Difference

Engendered by a disproportionately high number of veterans returning from service to our country only to wind up in a criminal court, Veterans’ Courts have been established around the country. These courts are modeled after drug courts with a heavy emphasis on treatment and support – and a deep understanding and respect for what these servicemen have endured in combat to support our nation.

A recent success story thanks to the Veterans’ Court in Orange County, CA is former United States Marine Erik Castro who returned from his tour of duty in Afghanistan suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder as well an alcohol abuse problem.  “I don’t want to ask for help,” Castro said. “I wanted to do what I know how to do. Violence. Drinking. In the Marine Corps, it was just drinking a lot.”

Castro’s situation is not unique; unfortunately, post-traumatic stress disorder combined with an alcohol or other substance abuse problem is a common response to their experiences in service yet the combination can result in violent outbursts and other behaviors that land them in jail. Castro’s experience with the Veterans’ Court in lieu of prison has been a success. To read more about his story, visit Offering treatment, not punishment, to veterans.

To learn more about Veterans Courts in California, visit the California Courts website.