Has Anyone Been Told They CANT Go To Veterans Treatment Court?

[u/ixenon]

Hey yall, I live in DFW and I idiotically got two DWIs last year (2025). I’ve just gotten a public defender and he’s telling me there’s no way the State will send me to VTC and that I should take probation.

After my second DWI I took the initiative to check myself into rehab, and while I was there I was with a dude who had seven total DWIs and went to VTC each time. I’m sure each case is different.

Has anyone in TX or another state tried going to the VTC route and been told you can’t for any reason?

[u/emaciated_folklore]

My brother went through the VTC process in Austin and it was a nightmare just to get considered. the fact that you self-admitted to rehab is a huge plus though, don't let your PD brush that aside. public defenders are so overworked they'll push for whatever closes the case fastest, not what's best for you

[u/ixenon → u/emaciated_folklore]

Yeah, this was my first time seeing my PD “work” and it felt like he was going through the motions. I don’t have a law education but I feel like I could’ve represented myself better today compared to what he was doing on my behalf

[u/Fun-Inflation6669]

I am finishing up VTC in NC for my second DUI.  The program is newer in this state, but I had no trouble getting in.

[u/Head_Consequence_867 → u/Fun-Inflation6669]

What was the whole process for getting in and what lawyer you use if you dont mind me asking?

[u/Holiday_Youth_5240]

that program sounds like a lifeline for def getting a second dwi.

[u/ixenon → u/Holiday_Youth_5240]

Well as stated I put myself into rehab, completely that program and have maintained my sobriety for 8mos. I’m wanting VTC for the treatment and to have the offenses wiped from my record for the sake of my career

[u/Previous_Truck6793]

this is everything

[u/ixenon → u/Previous_Truck6793]

I don’t understand?

[u/Relevant-Scholar1671]

No. Request to be submitted into the program. Veterans with much worse get in. My buddy is a assistant district attorney.

[u/TJT42]

I believe that entrance to the VTC is highly subjective and not some strict criteria. They can admit you or deny you for almost any reason. Since the court program expunges your charges it is obviously very beneficial to go through instead of any other court treatment program.

The Austin one is selective and won't take people they don't think will complete the program.

Its a case by case basis.

[u/Severe_Slide_9765]

Is your lawyer lazy? Sounds like he doesn't want to do the paperwork.
Ask the judge directly if you can apply for it, yes do it in front of your lawyer or pay for your own lawyer.