DAVIDSON COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH AND VETERANS COURT ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION

In July 2000, the General Sessions Court was awarded a four-year Edward Byrne Memorial Grant establishing a Mental Health Court for Davidson County. The court became operational in January 2001, thereby becoming only the fifth such court in the nation. The grant application was developed in conjunction with the Public Defender’s Office with the full support of the District Attorney General’s Office.

Across the United States, Veterans Treatment specialty courts are working to meet the specific needs of the men and women who have served our country and returned with challenges as a result of their experiences in difficult circumstances. Through a structured program administered by the court, eligible veterans can find stability and new purpose to be a contributor to the community. Benefits offered to assist veterans include mental health evaluation, alcohol/substance abuse assistance and supervision by client specialists assigned to work on their particular needs as well as housing assistance, medical care and dental care.

Judge Melissa Blackburn presides in both courts addressing the ongoing needs of jurisdictional defendants. During 2019, the Mental Health Court recorded a re-arrest rate of 13% and the Veterans Court rate was 12% compared to over 50% in the traditional criminal justice system. Support for these courts allows clients to regain control of their lives.