If you’re considering applying for veterans disability, pension, life insurance, or other benefits, consider the fact that you will have to wait 6 months to a year or more to receive a judgment — and even then there’s a chance your claim can be denied. Although it is not mandatory to have a lawyer represent your case for benefits, applying under the guidance of an attorney can provide distinct advantages over going it alone.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a skilled veterans benefits attorney could make a big difference in the outcome of your claim. With the guidance from an attorney who understands the process and knows what application strategies are most effective, you can improve your chances of winning a compensation award. Attorneys who regularly assist veterans in seeking benefits understand the complex VA regulations and can explain the current laws that apply to your case.
Your legal advocate can also work to minimize the turnaround time, in part by ensuring you submit all the right paperwork along with your application.
Getting Started With a Benefits Claim
During your initial consultation, your lawyer will review the details of your claim and determine if you do in fact qualify for veterans benefits. Your attorney will also address any questions about veterans benefits you present and prepare you for what lies ahead.
Once it is determined you are eligible for benefits, your veterans benefits lawyer will evaluate the details of your claim thoroughly and design an application or appeal strategy that is most efficient for your situation. Your legal team then builds an effective argument by gathering solid supporting evidence, which may include ordering additional medical evaluations and interviewing medical professionals.
In the event that your application is denied, your attorney can prepare your claim for review by the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) or, the next level of appeal, the Court of Appeals. Since most applicants wait about two years for a decision from the BVA, you’ll want to do all you can to win approval at the initial application stage.
If you’re thinking of hiring a VA lawyer to help you get the benefits you deserve, please search our list of veterans benefits lawyers today.