Posted December 9, 2025
Posted by Attorney and Veterans Service Office
The Fourth Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges veterans face as a result of their military service. By providing a judicially supervised system that connects veterans with mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, and essential support services, the VTC helps participants work toward stability, accountability, and long-term success. Its goal is to guide veterans back to becoming law-abiding, productive members of the community.
The Fourth Judicial District includes nine counties: Audubon, Cass, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page, Pottawattamie, and Shelby.
A Collaborative Mission to Serve Those Who Served
Many veterans encounter mental health, substance use, or behavioral challenges stemming from their military experiences. The mission of the Veterans Treatment Court is to address these unique needs through a judicially supervised program that connects veterans with:
The VTC is made possible through an extensive collaboration among criminal justice partners, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Nebraska-Western Iowa VA Health Care System, and veteran-service organizations across the region.
Who Is Eligible for the Veterans Treatment Court?
To participate in the Fourth Judicial District VTC, an individual must:
Have a treatable behavioral health concern such as PTSD, traumatic brain injury, anger or domestic-violence issues, or substance abuse
It’s important to note, eligibility for VA benefits is not required to participate.
How to Refer a Veteran
Referrals can be made by Prosecuting Attorneys, Defense Counsel, Court Services Officers, judges, family members, and other concerned individuals.
To begin the referral process, email the Veterans Treatment Court to request an application. Completed applications should be returned via email along with a brief explanation of why the veteran is a good candidate for the program.
If you know a veteran who may benefit, this connection could change their life.
Supporting the Veterans Treatment Court
The Fourth Judicial District VTC currently receives no state or federal funding. To continue meeting the needs of our local veterans, the court is operating an ongoing fundraiser.
Purchases of “Don’t Let the Hard Days Win” merchandise directly support program operations, including:
Assessments and evaluations — These can be expensive and not always covered by insurance.
Incentives for participants — Rewards help motivate veterans as they reach important milestones.
Graduation and recognition events — Celebrating our veterans’ hard work and recovery.
Every contribution helps veterans in our own communities overcome challenges, rebuild their lives, and continue their service as valued community members.
Why This Work Matters
Veterans Treatment Court offers a powerful alternative to traditional sentencing by focusing on healing, accountability, and long-term recovery. The stories that come out of this program are stories of transformation, including veterans regaining stability, reconnecting with family, and rebuilding purpose.
By raising awareness, encouraging referrals, and supporting the fundraiser, our community can help ensure that this vital program continues to grow.
Learn More & Get Involved
If you would like additional information, want to refer a veteran, or would like to contribute to the ongoing fundraiser, please contact the Fourth Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court.
Together, we can support the veterans who have served our nation and now need their community to stand beside them.