Finding the Best Veterans Attorney for Disability Claims
As long as you have served in the United States armed forces, you are eligible for some disability benefits as a veteran from the VA (Department of Veteran Affairs). However, there are some strict eligibility criteria you need to meet first before you begin the procedure. Those who have tried to get these benefits can attest to how complex the procedures can be.
Concerning issues like this, it is best to involve a veteran disability attorney not just because of the stringent procedures but to hasten the procedure and secure your payout. In addition, there are some deadlines you should not miss. With an experienced attorney, you can be assured that they will comply with the necessary requirements.
How Much Do Veterans Disability Lawyers Request to Be Paid?
Your veteran disability attorney can request a pay of around 33.33 percent, which is a retroactive benefit from you for their services. They can also charge a CFA-approved payment plan of 20 percent or below. However, note that no lawyer should request a down payment until you get your benefits from the BVA (Board of Veterans’ Appeals).
How Can You Choose the Best Veterans Disability Attorney?
Disability laws can be complex, so you must search for attorneys with excellent track records. To do that, consider the steps below:
- In-depth research
Search for reviews on Google Reviews or Yelp to check for a suitable lawyer. Read what other veterans have written concerning each attorney. Choose an attorney with a solid reputation and positive reviews.
- Excellent qualifications and credentials
Your disability attorney must be certified. An accredited lawyer has shown an excellent level of expertise, must have fulfilled major criteria, and must have a track record of successful cases.
- The consultation stage
Many attorneys with significant experience in veterans’ disability claims offer free consultation sessions. Leverage that. That way, you can make inquiries concerning confusing terms and get to know their availability, communication strategy, and fees.
- Success rate
During your free consultation sessions, ask each attorney their success rate. An experienced attorney should have had enough successful cases for veterans over the years.
What Are the Requirements You Must Have to Be Eligible for Veterans Disability Benefits?
To be eligible as a veteran, you must meet certain requirements. These requirements include:
- If you have been diagnosed with a disability
- If you have an illness or injury during your service to the armed forces
- Your disability should be related to the injury or illness you got while in service
Programs Veterans Can Benefit From
As your disability is identified, you might qualify for some programs to get additional benefits. These programs include:
- Vehicle allowance
- Individual unemployability
- Pre-stabilization
- Clothing allowance
- Convalescence
- Hospitalization
- Birth and dental defects
How to Work With Your Veterans Disability Attorney
Your attorney is someone you can trust to help secure the benefits you deserve. However, to ensure that the process goes smoothly, you can help them get a successful result by doing the following:
- Be responsive and do whatever they ask. If there is any update, do not hesitate to inform them.
- Provide a comprehensive medical report, leaving out no information.
- In case your claim goes to trial, ensure you attend all court proceedings and hearings.
Also Read: The Benefits of Professional Bookkeeping for Startups: Why It Matters
Conclusion
Sometimes, you might not need an attorney for the first time you apply for benefits. You can depend on the agency involved to assist you. “If working with an agency proves abortive by denying you a chance to get your benefits or you need a discharge upgrade, you may need to speak to a professional,” says veterans’ disability attorney Jan Dils of Fight4Vets. You can get a disability lawyer for veterans to fast-track your claim and get the benefits you deserve.
