Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 7/15/2009

Question
My nephew, graduated from high school despite he had severe ADHD with Tourettes and a few other diagnosis through the years. Even being very bright, he was unable to hold down a job very long for the next two years.  He had taken medication but after high school quit taking it.  He met a girl and got married(impulsively without telling his family and joined the navy within the month).  His family could not believe the army would take him but prayed a lot.  After less than a year, he is now going to military trial, possibly jail time and most definitely a dishonorable discharge.  As a family member I want to know who can I talk to(beside his military attorney, to present a case regarding his illness.  Thanks, Roxie

Answer
Honestly you cant. His trial attorney could try to present some of this evidence at his court martial as either mitigating circumstances or an affirmative defense depending on the charges levied against him.  He will have undoubtedly been seen and evaluated by military doctors and they can prescribe treatment for him during any potential incarceration. Depending on his sentence, his discharge will end all treatment and involvement from the military. If his attorney is not aware of these behavioral issues you should give them the documents (authentic medical records will be the only acceptable form) and let him decide the best way to use them.