Knox County Criminal Court Clerk Mike Hammond sits down with Judge Chuck Cerny to share the story behind the county’s Veterans Recovery Court. They discuss how the program began, the unique role of veteran mentors, and how it helps veterans facing addiction, PTSD, and nonviolent criminal charges rebuild their lives.

Highlights:
(0:50) How Veterans Recovery Court Began

(1:39) The Role of Veteran Mentors

(5:12) How the Court Supports Veterans with PTSD and Addiction

(5:44) The Challenge of Returning from War

(7:35) Impact on Participants and the Community

In this episode, Knox County Criminal Court Clerk Mike Hammond speaks with the Honorable Judge Chuck Cerny about the county’s Recovery Court, also known as Drug Court. Judge Cerny shares how the program works, who qualifies, and the rigorous steps participants take to break free from addiction and the criminal justice system. From weekly court appearances and drug screenings to community service and life-changing graduations, this conversation offers an inside look at a program designed to restore lives and strengthen the community.

Highlights
(8:21) The Impact of Recovery Court on Lives and Society

(4:47) Keys to Success in Recovery Court

(1:06) The Prevalence of Addiction in the Justice System

(2:59) The Opioid Crisis and Fentanyl

(6:13) Consequences and Sanctions in Drug Court

In this episode, Knox County Criminal Court Clerk Mike Hammond sits down with Mandy Branch, a General Sessions Office supervisor specializing in traffic cases. Together, they break down what happens when you get a traffic ticket from moving vs. non-moving violations to how points on your license work, when you need to appear in court, and options to resolve tickets before your court date. Whether you’re facing a minor citation or just curious about the process, you’ll get practical insights into navigating traffic cases in Knox County.

Higlights:
(2:00) Understanding Traffic Violations and Points
(2:36) Officer Discretion in Reckless Driving Charges
(4:04) Options Before Coming to Court
(4:54) Avoiding Points on Your License
(5:16) Should You Get an Attorney for Court?

From Country to Courts hosted by Mike Hammond, radio veteran, Country Radio Hall of Fame inductee, and longtime Criminal Court Clerk.

This podcast explores the vital issues at the heart of our courts and criminal justice system in a way that’s clear and compelling.

Each episode will dive into insights on how the court system works, what citizens can expect if they ever find themselves in court, and the programs and services many never hear about, like Veterans Recovery Court, Mental Health Court, and driver's license reinstatement programs.

Whether you’re facing a legal issue, serving jury duty, or just curious about what happens behind courtroom doors, From Country to Courts offers real world context and practical information to help you better understand the justice system and your place in it.