Veterans Court Needs Mentors

Kristina Derro, Esq.

  

The 17^th District Court in Redford, Michigan, has established a special veterans court that addresses the problems of military veterans who have encountered legal issues stemming from their military experiences. It allows veterans who were convicted of or plead guilty to certain charges the opportunity to be placed into a special program that, while still holding them accountable for the charges, allows the veterans to receive a coordinated response to the unique problems they are facing. It provides the veterans with a positive interaction between court personnel, prosecutors, probation staff, the VA, and local veterans groups.

One of the big features of this court is that it has established a “Military Veterans Mentoring Program” to assist the veterans appearing before the court. The program pairs troubled veterans with veterans who successfully made the transition from military to civilian life.  It allows a positive interaction and provides the troubled veterans with the opportunity to receive advice and guidance from one of their veteran peers who understands the rigors of returning to civilian life.

Right now, the court is in need of veteran mentors. If you or someone you know is a veteran is willing to commit to a few hours each month to assist a fellow veteran in need, please call the Veterans Coordinator for the 17^th District Court, Jim Badeen, at (313) 387-2792 or visit the mentoring program’s website at www.17thvetmentorsredford.co. You will be trained prior to being paired with a veteran involved in the program.