Collateral Consequences of Offenders with a History of Military Service

• In Event: Exploring the Veterans Treatment Court Experience: Collateral Consequences, Treatment Satisfaction, Procedural Justice, and Legitimacy

Abstract

Criminal offenders typically forfeit many rights as a collateral consequence to their felony conviction(s).  Collateral consequences of criminal convictions include restrictions, penalties, and sanctions that are generally not included in penal codes or sentencing guidelines. Instead, these collateral consequences are a product of criminal convictions under state and federal law that diminish the rights and privileges of citizens. Veterans are a group that warrant attention as they face very specific repercussions following a conviction, including the potential loss of VA treatment and benefits, as well as barriers to employment, education, and housing. This discussion stresses the importance of recognizing the possible collateral consequences veterans face as well as how VTC personnel can work together to recognize and address these concerns as well as educate veterans regarding these potential outcomes. 

Author

• Allison J. Fernandez, Texas State University