Although there is no rules that state you must hire lawyers specializing in veterans benefits to pursue benefits, representation can be extremely helpful. The laws, rules and regulations that apply to the VA are complex and dynamic, they change frequently. Rarely would a veteran have intimate knowledge of the law. Many veterans that have applied for benefits only to be denied simply give up; this is something that should not happen, although denial of benefits is frustrating you may find that, with the help of a seasoned veterans benefits lawyer, that you can win your appeal.
Disability benefits:
If you were disabled as a result of an injury or illness and it happened while you were serving with the US military you may be eligible for disability benefits.
To claim benefits you must be at least ten percent disabled. The amount that is paid monthly depends on the extent of the disability and the number of dependents you have. Simply put, if you are found to be 80 percent disabled you will receive more in benefits than an applicant that is deemed to be 30 percent disabled.
What do you have to prove to get benefits?
There are three things that you must prove to the satisfaction of the VA;
* At the time of the claim you must have a physical or mental disability
* Your disability is the result of an incident that happened while you were in the service or shortly after your honorable discharge
* The service oriented event must be directly related to your disability
As lawyers specializing in veterans benefits cannot be compensated until your claim has been denied and a notice of disagreement has been filed. Most claimants apply for benefits independently and wait for the outcome. Lawyers are extremely beneficial to your cause in the event your claim is denied.
The laws and rules pertaining to the VA are complex and difficult to understand. Lawyers specializing in veterans benefits can help to ensure the process is done correctly. If you are considering filing a claim for disability you are invited to contact Jackson & MacNichol Law Offices.