mental health programs and vet court

Introduction 

The Bucks County Veterans Treatment Court was established to more effectively address the needs of veterans cycling through the criminal justice system. This Court represents a collaboration between the Court of Common Pleas, the District Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, the Adult Probation Office, the County Department of Veterans Affairs and Veteran Mentors, and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). 

Mission

The mission of the Veterans Treatment Court is to enhance public safety and reduce recidivism of criminal defendants who are veterans by connecting them with VA benefits, treatment services and supports, and finding appropriate dispositions for their criminal charges by considering the veteran’s treatment needs and the seriousness of the offense. 

Goals

1.      Connect veteran participants with appropriate VA benefits, treatment, and support services (veteran-specific resources).

2.      Facilitate participant recovery.

3.      Reduce recidivism.

4.      Increase compliance with treatment and other Court ordered condition

5.      Decrease time spent in jail by moving participants expeditiously into appropriate treatment settings.

6.      Improve family relationships and social support connections.

7.      Improve life stability.