Combat veterans can sustain physical wounds and psychological scars that require proper care. Since 9/11, nearly three million soldiers have deployed to danger areas overseas. Twenty percent return home with psychological injuries and mental health problems related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse disorder and depression. Without the necessary care, mental health issues cause many veterans to become involved with the criminal justice system by breaking the law.

Different approaches to this societal issue have developed throughout the country. Many states established a Veterans Treatment Court. New Jersey did not. Instead, New Jersey relies on the Veterans Diversion Program, which deals with a select group of "Justice-involved veterans."