Courts ask people about veteran status at initial appearances

At a person's initial court appearance, the court asks whether the person is a U.S. armed forces veteran. The question applies to each person at their initial appearance hearing. The person's answer cannot be used against them in a criminal case unless they falsely claim to be a veteran.

When the court finds that a person is a veteran, it notifies the prosecutor and gives the person information about veterans' services. These steps apply when the court determines that a person is a U.S. armed forces veteran. These steps do not apply if the person is charged with a dangerous offense, a serious offense, a violent or aggravated felony, or a dangerous crime against children.

The prosecutor considers referring the person to veterans court, another treatment court, or a diversion program. It applies to a person the court determines is a veteran. This requirement does not apply if the person is charged with a dangerous offense, a serious offense, a violent or aggravated felony, or a dangerous crime against children.

If veteran status is in question, the prosecutor gives the person or their lawyer a chance to prove it with official records. This applies when the person's U.S. armed forces veteran status is in question. Official records may include a DD-214 showing the person's release or discharge from active military duty.