Last reviewed: September 29, 2026 by William Bacharach · Colorado Bar #59714
Veterans facing criminal charges in Colorado face a unique set of consequences that civilian defendants do not. A conviction can jeopardize VA disability benefits, affect housing assistance, and carry collateral consequences that follow a veteran for life. William Bacharach is a VA-accredited attorney who understands both the criminal justice system and the veterans benefits system — and how to defend cases in a way that protects both.
Why VA Benefits Matter in a Veteran's Criminal Case
For a veteran, a criminal case can have consequences beyond the courtroom, including effects on VA benefits during imprisonment. VA accreditation authorizes William Bacharach to represent veterans in VA benefits claims and appeals before the Department of Veterans Affairs — a credential most criminal defense attorneys do not hold. William Bacharach considers those benefit consequences when advising a veteran on a plea or sentence.
Criminal Charges That Commonly Affect Veterans
DUI / DWAI
DUI charges are among the most common criminal matters facing veterans. A DUI conviction can affect employment, can have other federal consequences, and — if it results in more than 60 days of imprisonment on a felony DUI — can reduce VA compensation. William Bacharach defends DUI and DWAI charges across the Denver metro area with an understanding of what is at stake for veterans specifically.
Domestic Violence
Veterans dealing with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or combat-related stress are statistically more likely to face domestic violence charges. A domestic violence conviction triggers a federal firearms prohibition under the Lautenberg Amendment, generally for life. William Bacharach defends these cases and works to protect veterans from consequences that go far beyond the criminal sentence itself.
Assault
Physical altercations involving veterans are sometimes rooted in service-connected conditions including PTSD, anxiety, or traumatic brain injury. Colorado courts increasingly recognize these factors, and presenting a veteran's military history and service-connected conditions effectively can be critical to achieving a favorable outcome.
Drug Offenses
Veterans struggling with service-connected substance use disorders face criminal charges that can compound an already difficult situation. Colorado's veterans treatment court and diversion programs offer alternatives to incarceration for eligible veterans — William Bacharach knows how to identify and pursue these options.
Veterans Treatment Court — Denver
Denver and several surrounding jurisdictions operate Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs) — specialized dockets that combine accountability with treatment and peer support from fellow veterans. Eligible veterans may be able to resolve criminal charges through VTC rather than through traditional prosecution, avoiding conviction and its collateral consequences entirely. Attorney Bacharach evaluates every eligible veteran's case for VTC placement and advocates for admission where appropriate.
How a Criminal Conviction Can Affect VA Benefits
Potential VA Benefit Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
- Compensation: If a veteran is convicted of a felony and imprisoned for more than 60 days, VA disability compensation is reduced beginning on the 61st day: veterans rated 20% or more are paid at the 10% rate, and veterans rated 10% receive half the 10% rate (38 U.S.C. § 5313). There is no reduction while in work release, a halfway house, or community control, and compensation may be reinstated on release based on the current severity of the disability.
- Pension: VA pension is terminated effective the 61st day of imprisonment in a Federal, State, or local penal institution for conviction of a felony or misdemeanor (38 U.S.C. § 1505). It may resume on release if the veteran meets eligibility requirements.
- Notify the VA: Failing to notify the VA of incarceration can result in the loss of all financial benefits until the overpayment is recovered (VA guidance for incarcerated veterans).
- Domestic violence conviction: Federal Lautenberg Amendment generally prohibits firearm possession for life — affects veterans in law enforcement, security, and military service
- Sex offender registration: Can affect housing benefits and certain VA programs
VA Accreditation — What It Means for You
VA accreditation is granted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of General Counsel to attorneys who are authorized to assist veterans with VA benefits claims, appeals, and related matters. William Bacharach holds VA accreditation number 60893, and is listed in the VA's official accredited attorney directory. This means he can represent veterans in VA benefits matters in addition to criminal defense — providing comprehensive legal support to veterans navigating both systems simultaneously.
PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury as Mitigating Factors
Colorado courts have increasingly recognized the role of service-connected mental health conditions in veterans' criminal cases. Presenting evidence of PTSD, TBI, moral injury, or other service-connected conditions — through medical records, VA ratings, and expert testimony — can be central to achieving a just outcome. William Bacharach approaches veterans' cases with the understanding that the conduct before the court may be inseparable from the veteran's military service.
Frequently Asked Questions — Veterans Criminal Defense
How do criminal charges affect VA benefits?
A criminal case can affect VA benefits in several ways. If a veteran is convicted of a felony and imprisoned for more than 60 days, VA disability compensation is reduced beginning on the 61st day: veterans rated 20% or more are paid at the 10% rate, and veterans rated 10% receive half the 10% rate (38 U.S.C. § 5313). VA pension is terminated effective the 61st day of imprisonment in a Federal, State, or local penal institution for conviction of a felony or misdemeanor (38 U.S.C. § 1505). A dishonorable discharge resulting from criminal conduct can also bar VA benefits. A VA-accredited attorney can help a veteran understand these consequences before a plea is entered.
What is veterans court in Colorado?
Several Colorado jurisdictions offer veterans treatment courts, which provide an alternative to traditional prosecution for veterans whose criminal conduct is connected to military service-related issues such as PTSD, TBI, or substance abuse. Successful completion typically results in dismissed or reduced charges.
How can a criminal case affect my VA benefits and discharge status?
Imprisonment for more than 60 days can reduce VA compensation (felony convictions) or terminate VA pension (felony or misdemeanor convictions), and a discharge characterized as dishonorable can bar VA benefits. VA accreditation authorizes William Bacharach to represent veterans in VA benefits claims and appeals before the Department of Veterans Affairs — a credential most criminal defense attorneys do not hold. William Bacharach considers these consequences, along with character-of-discharge issues, when advising a veteran in a criminal case.
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Veteran Facing Criminal Charges in Denver?
You deserve an attorney who understands what is at stake — in court and with the VA. Call William Bacharach for a free, confidential consultation.