Attorneys
Help put your client back on the road to success with our resources.
Helping Attorneys Help Their Clients
If you have a client who is a veteran and a candidate for the Veterans Treatment Court program, please contact us at 615.862.8320 to see how we can assist you both.
Download the participant application and attorney checklist to review client qualifications and necessary documentation for the assessment process.
We look forward to working with you to put your client back on the road to success!
Resources for Attorneys
Next Steps for Attorneys & Clients
1. Talk With Your Client
- Walk your client through the VTC Participant Handbook.
- Explain to them that this IS a treatment program, NOT a way out of charges.
- Explain they will be randomly tested for substances and alcohol. The Court considers missed tests to be positive screens.
- If the client wishes to pursue VTC, the attorney completes the application process.
2. Complete the Application
- Applications will not be considered unless they include the following:
- A copy of the participant’s DD214 (for veterans) or ERB (if they are currently enlisted)
- A completed application form
- Copy of warrant(s)
- Documentation of any current treatment participation for substance abuse and/or mental health programs.
- Once the application is completed and the necessary documents have been acquired, the attorney must get approval from the DA and obtain the DA’s signature on the application. (The case remains in General Sessions court if the DA disagrees). Once signed, turn in all documents to the Court Coordinator, Trish Breeding.
- Attorneys MUST attend the VTC orientation with their client(s).
3. The VTC Team Deliberates
- The VTC Team considers the application and recommends acceptance to Judge Blackburn.
- If the client is accepted, the VTC Team considers and votes on the proposed disposition of charges.
4. Decisions Are Made
- The attorney and your client will appear during the following VTC docket on Monday at 1:30 in Courtroom 3-B to meet Judge Blackburn and receive instructions from the court.
- The attorney discusses the contract with the client and confirms they still want to enter the VTC.
See how we can help today
The Davidson County Veterans Court is committed to helping veterans reclaim their lives. Contact us today to see how we can help you or someone you know.
