A Summit County Common Pleas Court specialized docket that assists veterans involved in the criminal justice system was recertified by the Supreme Court of Ohio.

The specialized docket, known as Valor Court, gives veterans access to programs, treatment, and mentors in a collaborative initiative to address specific treatment needs and enhance chances of success for veterans. The court recognizes that many veterans return to civilian life with serious trauma, both physical and mental.

To receive the three-year certification, Judge Susan Baker Ross, who presides over the docket, submitted an application, underwent a site visit from Supreme Court staff, and provided specific program materials to meet statewide certification standards.

“It is an honor to work with my team to help our veterans overcome the challenges that landed them in our justice system,” said Judge Ross. “Valor Court has been in place for more than 13 years, and this is its fourth certification. I am grateful for the service it provides and for the community impact it makes.”

Specialized dockets address the specific needs of people who are charged with a variety of offenses by using recommended best practices that focus on offender accountability, behavior change, and recovery. There are 250 certified specialized dockets in Ohio courts that focus on issues such as substance use disorders, mental health, domestic violence, human trafficking, and veterans.

The certification standards provide a minimum level of standard practices, while also allowing local courts to innovate and tailor programs to meet their community’s needs and resources.

The certification requirements include establishing eligibility requirements for participants, evaluating the program’s effectiveness, and assembling a treatment team to implement the daily operations of the specialized docket. The teams are headed by specialized docket judges and can include licensed treatment providers, law enforcement, court personnel, and others.