For those that have served in the armed forces of the United States, Congress has passed laws that provide financial benefits to those that are disabled as a result of their service. The programs are managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, frequently the law is not interpreted in favor of the veteran and as a result, benefits are often denied.
Congress was wise in understanding that service connected injuries may not manifest themselves for years at which time they cause a disability. The law, as written states that a claim for disability benefits can be made at any time, there is no time limit in effect. A veteran that was honorably discharged can file a claim years after the event. In many cases the eventual award is backdated to when the injury occurred, the VA is required to pay all the benefits you would have received over the many years since the injury happened.
Choosing a lawyer:
Lawyers for veterans benefits can make a significant difference in the outcome of your application and subsequent appeal if needed. Disability law is complicated; as such you need to hire a lawyer that focuses his or her attention on disability law.
Up until 1966 veterans who wanted to file for disability benefits had to go it alone, they were not given the right to engage a lawyer to represent them at the regional office or the Board of Veterans Appeals. Congress, once again in their wisdom, decided that this was unfair and veterans should be given the right to be represented. Not every lawyer can represent veterans, lawyers for veterans benefits must be accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Obtaining service connected benefits:
There are tests that must be passed to obtain disability compensation:
* Released from service with an honorable discharge, discharged under honorable conditions or a general discharge
* Your injury or disease was incurred while in active service for the US
* Your disability is not self inflicted or related to substance abuse
As simple and straight forward as it may seem, getting the benefits you deserve often takes the intervention of lawyers for veterans benefits.
It can be difficult and frustrating when you try to get disability benefits from the VA. You should consider hiring seasoned lawyers for veterans benefits to help you through the complex process. You are invited to contact Jackson & MacNichol Law Offices.