Veterans Outreach Court Returns To Help With Legal Issues

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 event will be Friday, Nov. 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital Primary Care Annex, 13515 Lake Terrace Lane, 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 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 register in advance using an online form. Participation is determined by income. Driving and court records are reviewed in advance.