Prince William County Veterans Facing a DUI: How the Veterans Treatment Docket Works
Defense attorney Tyler Andrehsen explains how the Veterans Treatment Docket can help eligible veterans facing DUI or other non-violent charges in Prince William County, including treatment-focused alternatives that may lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
What is the Veterans Treatment Docket?
Military service can leave lasting effects long after someone returns home. PTSD, anxiety, sleep disruption, and chronic stress often follow veterans into everyday life, and for some, alcohol becomes a way to cope. When that coping leads to a DUI arrest in Prince William County, the situation can feel overwhelming.
What many veterans do not realize is that the court system may offer another path forward through the Veterans Treatment Docket, a structured program focused on treatment and accountability rather than straight punishment, and in some cases it can lead to reduced charges or even dismissals.
Who may qualify?
Eligibility depends on the facts of each case, but common factors include:
• prior or current military service
• a DUI or other non-violent, substance-related offense
• signs of substance use or mental health challenges connected to service
• willingness to participate in treatment and supervision
• limited serious criminal history
Not every veteran or every DUI will qualify. The court reviews each situation individually.
What does the process look like?
Many people assume this program is a shortcut. It is not.
The Veterans Treatment Docket is structured and requires real commitment. Participants are expected to stay actively engaged and accountable throughout the process.
The program often includes:
• an application or referral through the court
• screening and assessments
• frequent court appearances
• substance abuse or mental health treatment
• counseling or therapy
• regular drug or alcohol testing
• check-ins with probation or case managers
• veteran mentorship or support groups
Missing appointments or failing to comply with program rules can result in removal from the docket.
As Tyler Andrehsen explains, this is not an easy path, but it is often a more productive one.
What outcomes are possible?
For veterans who complete the program successfully, the results can be significant.
Depending on the case, outcomes may include:
• reduced charges
• alternative sentencing
• minimized or suspended jail time
• or even dismissal in some situations
Beyond the legal result, many participants leave with real support systems and treatment in place, not just fines and a conviction.
Does this only apply to DUI?
The Veterans Treatment Docket most commonly applies to DUI and other non-violent, alcohol or substance-related offenses. Some additional charges may qualify depending on the circumstances.
If you are unsure whether your case may be eligible, it is important to ask early.
Why timing matters
This option is not automatic. You cannot simply request it on your court date.
Eligibility discussions, applications, and coordination with the court often need to happen early in the case. Waiting too long can limit your options.
Talking with an attorney who understands both DUI defense and how local courts handle veterans’ programs can make a real difference.
Similar Programs in Other Northern Virginia Counties
While this article focuses on how the Veterans Treatment Docket works in Prince William County and the courts serving Manassas, veterans charged with DUI in other parts of Northern Virginia may have similar options.
Many courts in the region offer programs designed to support veterans through treatment and supervision rather than straight punishment. These programs may be called Veterans Treatment Court, Veterans Treatment Docket, or Veterans Diversion Track.
Examples of nearby jurisdictions where these programs are available include:
• Fairfax County – Fairfax County Veterans Treatment Court offers treatment-based alternatives for eligible veterans.
• Loudoun County – Loudoun County has a Veterans Treatment Court that focuses on rehabilitation and accountability.
• Stafford County – Veterans Treatment Dockets are available for qualifying participants.
• Culpeper County – The court supports veterans through structured treatment programs in appropriate cases.
Each of these programs has its own eligibility requirements, structure, and expectations. Just like in Prince William County, acceptance into a veterans docket is not automatic and typically requires early planning and legal guidance.
If you are located outside Prince William County and are facing a DUI, it is important to speak with a defense attorney familiar with the local court programs in your jurisdiction. Knowing where programs exist and how they work can make a real difference in planning your defense.
Talk with someone who understands your situation
At Battlefield Law Group, we regularly represent clients in Prince William County facing DUI charges, including veterans dealing with the lasting effects of service.
Our approach is straightforward. We take the time to understand your story, explain your options clearly, and help you determine whether programs like the Veterans Treatment Docket may fit your case.
If you served and are facing a DUI, call 571-364-0500 or contact our office to talk through your next steps.
