BRAVE Act

The BRAVE Act provides resources and support for programs that focus on diverting veterans away from traditional court processes. These programs might include veterans' courts or specialized treatment programs tailored to address the specific needs of veterans.

BRAVE Act Explained

The BRAVE Act, enacted in 2018, is legislation aimed at providing additional assistance to veterans and their families. Among its various provisions, the BRAVE Act extends support through veteran bonus programs, grants time off on Memorial Day, and sets guidelines on information access during hiring processes for public safety roles.

Diverting Veterans Facing Criminal Charges:

A significant aspect of the BRAVE Act is its focus on diverting veterans facing criminal charges away from traditional court processes. This diversion involves redirecting cases to specialized courts or programs designed to address veterans' unique needs. For instance, certain districts like Roxbury, Charlestown, and Dorchester have established diversion programs under the BRAVE Act.

Qualifications and Exceptions:

While diversion under the BRAVE Act can be beneficial, it's essential to note that not all veterans may qualify. Specific criteria must be met, such as:

• Veterans with dishonorable discharges may not qualify.

• Those with prior convictions (excluding traffic violations) might not be eligible.

• Certain charges, like domestic violence or serious assaults, could disqualify a veteran.

• Cases carrying sentences over five years or mandatory minimums may also be ineligible.

• Cases that cannot be continued without a finding may not qualify.

Veterans Treatment Courts:

In addition to diversion under the BRAVE Act, veterans may find support through Veterans Treatment Courts. These specialized courts focus on providing treatment and support for veterans entangled in the criminal justice system. They aim to address underlying issues like mental health or substance abuse to help veterans reintegrate successfully into society.

Making Informed Decisions:

The decision to divert a veteran or refer them to a specialized court is typically made by a judge, considering various factors such as the nature of the charges and the veteran's background. The ultimate goal is to provide veterans with the necessary support and resources to address underlying issues and prevent further legal entanglements.

Conclusion:

The BRAVE Act and Veterans Treatment Courts are pillars of support for veterans facing legal challenges. By offering diversion programs and specialized courts, we strive to honor the service of our veterans while ensuring they receive the assistance they need to navigate the legal system and reintegrate into civilian life successfully.

Brave Act Law St.2018, c.218  

FAQs About the BRAVE Act

1. What is the BRAVE Act?

   • The Brave Act is legislation enacted in 2018 aimed at providing additional support to veterans and their families. It includes various provisions to extend benefits and assistance to those who have served in the military.

2. What is diversion for veterans under the BRAVE Act​​​​​​​?

   • Diversion for veterans involves redirecting their criminal cases away from traditional court processes to specialized programs or courts designed to address their unique needs. These programs focus on rehabilitation and support rather than punishment.

3. Who qualifies for diversion under the BRAVE Act​​​​​​​?

   • Eligibility for diversion under the Brave Act depends on various factors, including the nature of the charges and the veteran's background. Veterans with dishonorable discharges or prior convictions (excluding traffic violations) may not qualify. Additionally, certain charges or sentences may disqualify a veteran from diversion.

4. What are Veterans Treatment Courts?

   • Veterans Treatment Courts are specialized courts that focus on providing treatment and support for veterans involved in the criminal justice system. These courts aim to address underlying issues like mental health or substance abuse to help veterans reintegrate successfully into society.

5. How are decisions made regarding diversion or referral to Veterans Treatment Courts?

   • Decisions regarding diversion or referral to Veterans Treatment Courts are typically made by judges, considering factors such as the nature of the charges and the veteran's background. The goal is to provide veterans with the necessary support and resources to address underlying issues and prevent further legal entanglements.

6. How can I support veterans facing legal challenges?

   • There are various ways to support veterans facing legal challenges, including raising awareness about available resources, volunteering with organizations that assist veterans, or advocating for policies that benefit veterans.

7. Where can I learn more about the BRAVE Act and Veterans Treatment Courts?

   • For more information about the BRAVE Act​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ and Veterans Treatment Courts, you can visit official government websites, contact local veterans' organizations, or reach out to legal professionals specializing in veterans' issues. Additionally, our website provides resources and information on these topics.

8. Can veterans choose to participate in diversion programs or Veterans Treatment Courts?

   • Participation in diversion programs or Veterans Treatment Courts is typically determined by judges based on individual circumstances. While veterans may express their willingness to participate, the final decision rests with the judicial system.

9. What are the benefits of diversion programs and Veterans Treatment Courts for veterans?

   • Diversion programs and Veterans Treatment Courts offer veterans access to specialized support and resources tailored to their needs. These programs focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, aiming to address underlying issues and help veterans reintegrate into society successfully.

10. How can I get involved in supporting veterans through diversion programs or Veterans Treatment Courts?

    • If you're interested in supporting veterans through diversion programs or Veterans Treatment Courts, you can explore volunteer opportunities, advocate for policies that support veterans, or donate to organizations that provide assistance to veterans in the legal system.