Who is Eligible?

All veterans and current military members are eligible to be seen at the Phoenix Veterans' Court.

Offenses

The Phoenix Veterans’ Court accepts criminal misdemeanor cases filed in Phoenix Municipal Court. A misdemeanor is a minor criminal offense. The veteran, prosecutor and judge must all agree before a case is referred to the Veterans’ Court docket. The Phoenix City Prosecutor’s Office can refuse admission to this court if admission would violate the law or the interest of justice.  If the charge(s) are being challenged, the case will be referred to a non‐Veteran Court docket. 

What to expect when you arrive at the court house

This is the front door of the Phoenix Municipal courthouse. It is located at 300 W. Washington Street in downtown Phoenix. 

Program

Every treatment program is designed to meet each individual’s needs. The Court recognizes that every person is different and experiences a range of issues associated with service in the military or other life circumstances. By having served our country you are given the opportunity to receive the help you need to attempt to resolve the barrier that is preventing you from living a healthy life. A unique plan is designed for each veteran. The program can be covered by the VA for those who qualify. 

Parking

There is a parking garage located across the street from the courthouse. 

Security

When you enter the door you will have to go through security. 

How to get to the Courtroom

Take the elevator to the sixth floor and go to Courtroom 603.

Inside the Courtroom

When you enter the courtroom you will need to sign in and then sit down. 

Where You Will Sit

This is where you will sit while you wait for the judge to call you. 

Counsel Chairs

This is where the prosecutor or defense counsel sit.

The Judge

Judge Marianne T. Bayordi presides over the Phoenix Veterans' Court.

Staffing

The Judge, Veterans Justice Outreach coordinator and various service agencies discuss each Veterans’ Court case and determine a treatment plan specific to each veterans’ needs.

Court Session Begins

At the beginning of the court session, all attendees are asked to state their name and the branch of military served.  The Judge will then explain the sequence of events taking place in court and introduces the staff members. The VJO, the Public Defender or other service providers may also meet with you regarding your treatment plan. Each person on the docket will be called individually to speak. The Judge will discuss individual treatment plans and the progress being made.  A new court date will be scheduled for a status review of the veteran’s case.

End of Court Session

After you speak with the judge you will schedule your next court date. While time frames vary, participants may be asked to visit once a month if the treatment plan is followed as expected. 

Graduation

Participants who successfully complete all court-ordered programs are awarded a certificate and a challenge coin honoring their hard work and perseverance.

Why Choose Veterans Court

Veterans Court cases are personalized to meet the participant’s needs as opposed to a traditional docket which is more standardized. The court offers a specialized program that can assist participants with medical conditions, unemployment, lack of education, homelessness, mental health issues and drug or alcohol abuse.  The Veterans Court program is designed to expedite access to veteran-specific resources such as benefits and treatment. Veterans are able to utilize the same benefits earned through service.