Veterans’ Treatment Court Lawyer in Framingham, MA
What Is a Veterans’ Treatment Court?
Massachusetts Veterans’ Treatment Courts take criminal cases involving those who have served in the United States military. These differ significantly from traditional criminal courts. According to the state, their focus is on maintaining public safety while helping veterans accused of criminal offenses manage and overcome issues like "posttraumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma."
Attorney Robert Cerra takes pride in representing those who have served our country in all kinds of legal matters, including individuals wanting to participate in Veterans’ Treatment Court. He is a Marine Corps veteran who empathizes with many veterans' struggles when returning to civilian life. Contact Law Office of Robert Cerra if you believe referral to Veterans’ Treatment Court would be beneficial for yourself or a loved one.
Schedule a free consultation with Framingham Veterans’ Treatment Court lawyer Robert Cerra. Call (508) 290-6365 or submit the firm’s contact form today.
How Do Veterans’ Treatment Courts Work?
In Massachusetts, Veterans’ Treatment Courts are called diversionary programs. These can be used as an alternative to traditional criminal proceedings. In some cases, participation in them is available to those who have already been convicted.
Veterans’ Treatment Courts operate on the premise that many of the issues veterans accused of crimes face are the result of the difficulties of military service. As such, these specialized courts seek to provide support and resources specifically tailored to address those issues.
These programs typically last one to two years and are entirely voluntary. Participants are under judicial and probationary supervision and matched with a peer mentor.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible to participate in a Veterans’ Treatment Court, you must:
- Have served in the U.S. military
- Be charged with a misdemeanor or felony related to your service or mental health condition
- Have substance abuse and health issues or co-occurring disorders connected to military service
It is important to note that the state’s Veterans’ Treatment Court team determines eligibility on a case-by-case basis. This is why it can be advantageous to have an attorney to tell your or a loved one’s story and advocate for participation in these courts.
The Advantages of Veterans’ Treatment Courts
The primary benefit of Veterans’ Treatment Courts is their emphasis on rehabilitation over punishment. In traditional criminal courts, the priority is often punishing defendants for their actions. In contrast, Veterans’ Treatment Courts seek to address problems underlying an offense to help participants avoid future legal troubles.
Additionally, participating in a Veterans’ Treatment Court program can provide:
- A reduced or dismissed sentence upon completion
- Access to resources and support specifically geared towards veterans' needs, such as PTSD treatment
- A peer mentor to offer camaraderie
Our Core Values
Committed to Integrity, Service,
& Justice for All
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Relentless Advocacy for Those Who ServeFrom VA claims to record corrections, Attorney Cerra combines his service-driven past with legal expertise to deliver the results you need.
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Experienced in Service, Driven by JusticeRobert Cerra’s military and first responder background fuels his passion for fighting tirelessly for Veterans and first responders navigating legal challenges.
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Former First Responder, Proven AdvocateAs a former law enforcement officer, Attorney Cerra brings a unique perspective and unmatched commitment to serving those who’ve served.
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Veteran Supporting VeteransWith firsthand military experience, Attorney Robert Cerra understands the challenges Veterans face and is dedicated to securing the benefits they deserve.
What Framingham Veterans’ Treatment Court Attorney Robert Cerra Can Do for You
Attorney Cerra has extensive experience helping clients gain entry to the Massachusetts Veterans’ Treatment Courts. Additionally, he is an adept criminal defense lawyer. His blend of unique know-how and skills can prove invaluable.
Should you trust your case with Attorney Cerra, he can thoroughly review it and determine your eligibility for participation in these alternative courts.
Beyond this initial step, he can:
- Assist in preparing and submitting a program referral form
- Help you ready yourself for the program interview
- Advocate for your participation in the program, highlighting the link between the offense and your military service
- Provide guidance throughout the program
- Work to rectify violations of your rights as a veteran and individual accused of a crime