North Carolina is strengthening its commitment to law and order by expanding Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs) giving those who once served the nation a disciplined path toward accountability and recovery. Rather than simply cycling through the criminal justice system, veterans in these courts must meet high standards, accept responsibility, and work hard to rebuild their lives.
North Carolina Judicial District 29 recently opened a new regional VTC that serves Moore and Hoke counties. The launch came after more than two years of planning with local justice leaders and veteran-serving organizations.
State and federal officials joined the kickoff, and the court is already taking eligible cases. And soon after, Union County announced it’s moving toward opening its own VTC, calling for volunteer veteran mentors to step up and support participants.
VTCs are different from traditional courts. They’re designed for veterans whose offenses are tied to substance use, mental health issues, or trauma. Instead of the traditional system, participants commit to treatment, undergo regular check-ins with a judge, undergo frequent testing, and receive close supervision. Prosecutors, defense attorneys, treatment providers, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) all work together as part of the process. It’s a team approach that emphasizes structure and support.
This momentum is part of a bigger statewide trend. In May, the North Carolina Judicial Branch observed Recovery Court Month, noting that 84 recovery courts were already in operation across the state, including VTCs. More counties are completing training, setting local rules, and recruiting mentors to meet the need.
There’s strong evidence that these courts work.
A study of nearly 8,000 veterans across the country found that only 14% had a new incarceration while in the program. Housing stability improved, more participants received VA benefits, and employment went up. The results show that when courts focus on both treatment and accountability, veterans are more likely to succeed.
Participating in a VTC isn’t easy. Veterans must enter a plea, follow treatment plans, and meet stringent program requirements under a judge’s supervision. Those who graduate can earn agreed legal outcomes, while those who don’t return to the regular court system. It’s demanding, but it offers a real chance to address the issues driving criminal behavior.
For North Carolina’s veteran community, the impact is clear. The District 29 court provides Moore and Hoke counties with a structured way to handle cases that often fall through the cracks. Union County’s call for mentors highlights the peer-to-peer connection that makes these courts unique. As more counties build their programs, the keys to success will be early identification of eligible veterans, consistent testing, and strong partnerships with the VA and local providers.
For veterans who’ve sacrificed for our freedoms, this approach balances second chances with strict accountability. Not every veteran will qualify, and not every participant will complete the program. However, these new VTCs provide support where it matters most: at the community level, serving those who have already served us.