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24/7/365 Emergency Hotline: 631-348-1702

If you have been arrested, or in case of an emergency, our attorneys can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 631-348-1702.

Bill Would Provide New Procedures for Veterans in the Criminal Justice System

As Americans, we owe a tremendous debt to our veterans for our liberty and safety. We need to keep in mind that many veterans returning home from combat relive the devastating effects of war each day, and many suffer major psychological illnesses.

One in four veterans returns from the warfront with mental illness such as PTSD, addiction, and depression. Half of these vets are left untreated and often find themselves in conflict with the law. In New York State alone, it is estimated that there are at least 27,000 veterans who suffer from mental illness.

As Americans, we owe a tremendous debt to our veterans for our liberty and safety. We need to keep in mind that many veterans returning home from combat relive the devastating effects of war each day, and many suffer major psychological illnesses.

One in four veterans returns from the warfront with mental illness such as PTSD, addiction, and depression. Half of these vets are left untreated and often find themselves in conflict with the law. In New York State alone, it is estimated that there are at least 27,000 veterans who suffer from mental illness.

A proposed bill before the New York State Legislature, the Justice for Our Veterans Act, if enacted into law, will ensure that veterans suffering from mental illness that end up in the criminal justice system get the treatment they need. The Act would create new procedures in the criminal justice system to consider whether mental illness as a result of military service played a role in the commission of a crime committed by a veteran. Veterans would undergo a treatment program, which if successful, would result in the charges being reduced or dropped.

The bill would not apply to all crimes. Veterans accused of murder in the first and second degrees, kidnapping, arson, and sex offenses would not be eligible to participate. Those convicted of crimes involving domestic violence would also not have such charges immediately dropped, but would be required to undergo a period of probation.

Seventeen counties in New York, including Suffolk County, currently have designated Veterans Treatment courts dealing with substance abuse, low level misdemeanors, some felonies, and mental health issues. Veteran advocates have found these courts highly successful in rehabilitating veterans and providing them with the treatment they need. Our veterans deserve our respect and need our help.

The New York State Senate is expected to vote on the bill this month.

If you are a veteran who has been convicted of a crime, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss your rights and legal options. Call the criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of McGuire & Pelaez, P.C. today at (631) 348-1702.

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I had an incredible experience working with this law firm for my case. Chris and Karen were so supportive and communicative during the process and it was such a pleasure speaking with them. I had a difficult case and I reached out to them with such short notice, only 24 hours in advance and they were able to show up to my court date the very next morning and also got my case dismissed. I was really impressed when they started to working on my case immediately while I was still there. They are very efficient and I felt like they really cared about my situation. Everyone in the office is really friendly and communicative and they made the process truly stress free. The office is really nice and the waiting area is pleasant as well. If you feel uneasy or unsure , be assured that this firm will have you feeling relieved and happy with the results. I would refer this firm to anyone in need of legal representation especially on late notice. Can wholeheartedly say they’re top notch lawyers. Thank you again
Chris is the man. I had an issue related to school matters and I was stressed and didn’t know who to turn to. I found Chris, and he was so helpful. He knows what he’s doing and we were able to get the outcome we wanted. Thank you! Will not hesitate to use you again should I need to. Whether it’s educational law, personal injury, etc. Very responsive and attentive.
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