Update Day 2 of Vet Court Con 2013 by Eric Marvin.
It was a crisp, crystal clear December day in Washington, D.C. with another compelling set of sessions at Vet Court Con 2013.
The morning started with a break out session for prosecutors during which we fleshed-out the successes and hurdles that my counterparts have experienced during their veteran treatment court (VTC) rollout. A session specific to rural areas provided insight into the discrete challenges of VTC participants who, like many Central Oregon vets, cannot easily access services. Obstacles like transportation to treatment and the ability to quickly and accurately test for alcohol/controlled substances are challenges for VTCs in remote and rural areas must overcome. Family, a supportive community and creativity often provide the solutions. The dominant theme of the conference: justice involved veterans, in large numbers, will need our help over the coming years and decades. VTCs are our best, evidence-based opportunity to stand up for those who have honorably, faithfully defended our freedom.