Brave Act Diversion for Military Veterans Facing Criminal Charges in Massachusetts

At DelSignore Law, we have a deep respect for those who have served our country. We also understand that the challenges veterans face after returning to civilian life can sometimes lead to involvement with the criminal justice system. The Brave Act in Massachusetts offers an important opportunity for eligible veterans to avoid prosecution by focusing on treatment and recovery instead of punishment.

The Brave Act was signed into law in Massachusetts. It gives veterans and active-duty service members the chance to enter a diversion program if their offense is connected to a service-related condition such as PTSD, traumatic brain injury, substance use disorder, or other mental health concerns. This program allows the court to pause the criminal case and offer treatment as an alternative to conviction.

To be considered for Brave Act diversion, a person must generally meet the following criteria:

• Be a veteran or active-duty member of the military
• Be charged with a criminal offense that qualifies for diversion
• Have a condition connected to military service that contributed to the offense
• Be willing to undergo a court-approved treatment plan

The court may require a formal evaluation to confirm that the condition is service-related and that the individual is appropriate for diversion.

If you are a veteran facing criminal charges, your attorney can request a Brave Act evaluation early in the court process. The case may be put on hold while a qualified provider, often through the VA, evaluates your condition and recommends a treatment plan. If the court approves the plan and you successfully complete it, the charges may be dismissed.

This process not only helps veterans address underlying issues but also protects their future by avoiding a criminal record.

The Brave Act reflects an understanding that military service can have long-term personal and emotional effects. Instead of treating veterans like every other defendant, the program provides a second chance that acknowledges their service and the challenges they have endured.

Completing a Brave Act diversion keeps your record clean, helps you get the treatment you need, and supports a healthier return to civilian life.

Attorney Michael DelSignore has helped veterans across Massachusetts navigate the Brave Act process. He works closely with courts, treatment providers, and the VA to ensure that your service is recognized and your case is given full consideration for diversion. Michael understands how important this program can be and will guide you through every step, from gathering documentation and requesting an evaluation to advocating for dismissal after treatment is completed.

If you are a veteran or active-duty service member facing criminal charges, you may be eligible for relief under the Brave Act. Reach out to DelSignore Law to find out how Attorney Michael DelSignore can help you pursue this opportunity and move forward with the support and respect you deserve.

Attorney Michael DelSignore has successfully helped many veterans across Massachusetts resolve their criminal charges through the Brave Act Diversion Program. Below are examples of recent case results where clients avoided convictions by completing treatment and meeting court requirements:

• Woburn District Court – Client charged with First Offense OUI and refused the breath test. All charges dismissed in February 2025 following completion of Brave Act Diversion.
• Wrentham District Court – Client faced charges of First Offense OUI, Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and a Marked Lanes Violation. Despite submitting to a breath test, all charges were dismissed in June 2025 through Brave Act Diversion.
• Gardner District Court – Client charged with First Offense OUI, Negligent Operation, and a Marked Lanes Violation. The client refused the breath test. All charges were dismissed in March 2024 after completing Brave Act requirements.
• Wareham District Court – Client charged with First Offense OUI, Negligent Operation, and a Marked Lanes Violation. All charges were dismissed in January 2024 after successful completion of the Valor Act conditions.
• Taunton District Court – Client charged with OUI, State Highway Traffic Violation, Marked Lanes Violation, and Speeding. All charges dismissed in April 2024 through Brave Act Diversion.
• Marlborough District Court – OUI charge resolved through Brave Act Diversion in 2024.
• Fall River District Court – Client submitted to a breath test and was charged with OUI. The Commonwealth dismissed the case in June 2024 after the client completed Brave Act Diversion.
• Attleboro District Court – Client charged with First Offense OUI, Negligent Operation, and Marked Lanes Violation. All charges dismissed in February 2024 after successful Brave Act participation.
• Plymouth District Court – Client charged with OUI, Negligent Operation, and Possession of an Open Container of Alcohol in a Motor Vehicle. The court determined the client was eligible for Valor services, and all charges were dismissed.
• Wareham District Court – Client faced charges for OUI, Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle, and Operating with a Suspended Registration. All charges were dismissed in May 2023 due to successful Brave Act Diversion.