Veterans Outreach Court returns to help homeless
TAMPA, FL -- Local government agencies and veterans groups will join together again this year for Veterans Outreach Court, an annual event designed to help homeless and low-income military veterans resolve legal problems.
The free event will be 9AM to 3PM Friday, November 8, 2019 at the James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital Primary Care Annex, 13515 Lake Terrace Lane in Tampa. About 60 veterans were assisted during last year’s event, and organizers hope to reach even more this year.
Participating agencies include the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court & Comptroller, the 13th Judicial Circuit, the Hillsborough State Attorney’s Office, the Hillsborough Public Defender’s Office, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Hillsborough County Veterans Services, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and various local Veterans organizations.
With more than 98,000 veterans, Hillsborough County has the largest veteran population in Florida. “They have honorably served our nation, but some are now struggling to get their lives in order due to minor legal issues,” said Chief Judge Ficarrotta. “With so many veterans living in Hillsborough County, we believe it is imperative the court reaches out to help these vets.”
For the fourth consecutive year, Hillsborough County Judge Daryl Manning, a U.S. Army veteran, is spearheading the outreach effort. “Veterans Outreach Court is not a handout, but a helping hand up,” he said. “It’s a way we can help these men and women veterans get back on the feet by quickly resolving some of their legal issues. They certainly have earned this kind of support.”
Participants must register in advance between August 19th and October 6th using the online form. Participation will be determined by income. Driving and court records will be reviewed in advance. Qualified participants will receive a notice in the mail of their scheduled time. The Notice of Hearing will be mailed by October 25, 2019. You may also view your case online. Anyone who is ineligible will be contacted by phone.
Cases excluded from this event include domestic violence, child support, felonies with active warrants and those pending in Veterans Court. A consultation with an attorney in those cases is recommended.