Who is eligible?

All veterans and current military members are eligible to be seen at the The City of Tucson Veterans' Court. 

Offenses

The City of Tucson Veterans’ Court accepts criminal misdemeanor cases that are diversion eligible and filed in Tucson City Court. A misdemeanor is a minor criminal offense. A few examples of a misdemeanor are disorderly conduct, petty theft or trespass.  The veteran, prosecutor and judge must all agree before a case is referred to the Veterans’ Court docket. The City of Tucson's 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. 

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.

What to expect when you arrive at the courthouse

The City of Tucson Veterans’ Court is located at 103 E. Alameda Street Tucson, AZ 85701.

Parking

A parking lot is 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 stairs or elevator to the second floor. Then walk to courtroom 4.

Inside the Courtroom

When you enter the courtroom there will be a table with a sign in sheet. Sign your name 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

The prosecution table is on the right side of the courtroom. The defense table is on the left side of the courtroom.

Jury Box

This is the jury box. However, since trials are not conducted during Veterans’ court, this is where the service providers sit while court is in session. 

The Judge

This is Judge Michael Pollard. He served in the United States Marine Corps and now presides over the City of Tucson 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 you will view an orientation video. 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.