There are several different types of "problem solving Courts" in Florida. Among those are Drug Court, Mental Health Court, and Veterans Court.
These are special treatment-based programs that could result in your charges being dismissed if successfully completed. They also have "post-adjudicatory" tracks where you are required to complete conditions as a result of a probationary sentence.
If you suffer from drug addiction or a mental health issue, those options may be in your best interest. On one hand, you can receive treatment. On the other hand, it may provide you with the best outcome for your criminal case.
Veterans Court is uniquely reserved for military veterans. This applies only to certain offenses and the participant must be an honorably-discharged veteran.
Veterans Court will result in charges being dismissed if the program is completed. For misdemeanors, the program length is one year. For felonies, it is 18 months. Mind you, this is the minimum amount of time required. If the participant fails to complete conditions or is struggling to maintain compliance, the term may be extended.
Speak with your criminal defense attorney about treatment-based Courts if your case would be eligible for transfer to Drug Court, Mental Health Court, or Veterans Court.
Eric Matheny is a criminal defense attorney serving Miami-Dade County; Broward County; and Palm Beach County.