AZ HB2643

Requires the presiding judge of the superior court in each county to establish a veterans court to adjudicate cases filed in superior, justice, or municipal courts.

Mandates referral to veterans court for any case against a veteran alleging only a violation of section 28-1383, subsection A, paragraph 1, 2, or 4 (aggravated DUI offenses) in superior court, and in justice or municipal courts if the offense does not involve personal injury or property damage exceeding $5,000.

Allows veterans convicted of qualifying DUI violations to be eligible for probation regardless of criminal history, and requires screening by a physician or mental health specialist to determine if the person suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

In justice and municipal courts, suspends prosecution for 24 months to allow eligible veterans to participate in a deferred prosecution program that includes probation supervision, post-traumatic stress disorder counseling, and compliance with treatment orders, with successful completion resulting in dismissal of all charges.

Requires the originating court to notify the prosecutor of any criminal case referred to the veterans court.