Veterans Diversion Program for DUI - Florida

Sam Ridgeway is a War Veteran.  Sam served in the US Army before, during, and after the Gulf War and knows the impacts that combat can have on a Veterans life because he has lived it, just like every War Veteran who has served our country. 

There is a special program in Florida for Veterans charged with certain crimes - it is called the Veterans Diversion Program.  The Program was first opened in 2008 due to an overwhelming number of veterans entering the criminal justice system.  The idea started when it was documented that the veterans entering the criminal justice system had unique needs related to their service and the Veterans Court was formed. 

Florida has the second highest number of veterans in the United States and has many Veterans Courts throughout the State. 

If a veteran is charged with certain types of crimes and meet some very simple eligibility requirements - the main requirement is being a veteran! - they may be eligible to enter the diversion program and go to Veterans Court avoiding jail and or prison time entirely.  There are probation and mental health type requirements to follow but in most cases, at the completion of the program, any and all criminal charges are dismissed.  DUI is one of the charges that is allowed to be heard in Veterans Court.

In Florida, even with admission to Veterans Court, it is important to remember that there is a 10 Day Rule.  There are actually two separate processes that happen in Florida - the court and the DMV. 

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles allow 10 days from the date of your DUI arrest to request an administrative hearing.  They are the ones that decide if law enforcement was justified in suspending your license.  You must apply for a hearing or your license will certainly be suspended. 

If as a veteran you are charged with a DUI, whether you follow the conventional path of the criminal courts or opt for Veterans Court, we can help.  FR44 & SR22 Insurance Experts is a Veteran owned and managed company and we will provide the fastest, most efficient, and affordable insurance for your special needs.

We have compiled some additional resources included here that you may find helpful.   Please understand that we are not attorneys, we are not offering legal advice, but simply providing some information that is not easy to find and not well known.