U.S. Board of Veterans' Appeals Attorney

Experienced Board of Veterans' Appeals Attorney For U.S. Veterans

When veterans file claims for disability benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and receive an unfavorable decision, they have the right to appeal that decision. For many, the next step in the appeals process is to submit their case to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA). The BVA is responsible for reviewing decisions made by regional VA offices and determining whether they were correct based on applicable laws and regulations.

If you are a veteran who has received an unfavorable decision from the VA regarding your disability claim, it is important to understand your options when appealing to the BVA. At The Vet Law Office, we work with veterans to address concerns related to disabilities and help them receive the benefits they need and deserve. Attorney Farmer, who is also a disabled veteran, provides compassionate support during these complex proceedings, working to ensure that veterans who have served their country will be properly cared for.

Requesting a Direct Review

The first option available to veterans at the BVA level is requesting a direct review. In these situations, a veteran will ask the board to review their case without providing any additional evidence or arguments beyond what was already submitted during previous stages of a claim.

A direct review can be beneficial if you believe that there was an error in how your case was decided by the regional office or if you think there was an incorrect interpretation of the law. By choosing this option, you are essentially asking for another set of eyes within the BVA to reevaluate your claim based on what has already been presented.

Submitting New Evidence

If you have additional evidence that is relevant to your disability claim, you may choose to submit it to the BVA. This can include medical records, statements from witnesses, or any other documentation that supports your case. Submitting new evidence allows a Veterans Law Judge to consider information that was not previously available during earlier stages of your claim. New evidence must be submitted within 90 days after the VA receives a request for a BVA appeal.

If you are considering this option, it is crucial to gather as much relevant evidence as possible before submitting your appeal. You may need to obtain updated medical records or seek expert opinions on your condition if necessary. The more compelling and persuasive the new evidence is, the stronger chance there is of receiving a favorable outcome.

Requesting a Hearing With a Veterans Law Judge

The third option available at the BVA level is requesting a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge (VLJ). A hearing provides an opportunity for veterans to make oral arguments and provide additional information directly to a judge who will make decisions about how the case should be handled. Hearings may be held in person or virtually.

A hearing can be beneficial, because it allows you to explain your case in person while addressing any questions or concerns raised by the judge. It also gives you the opportunity to clarify any misunderstandings or ambiguities regarding your disability claim. If necessary, you may also provide the judge with new, relevant evidence that may play a role in deciding your case.

Contact Our Board of Veterans' Appeals Lawyer

Submitting claims to the Board of Veterans' Appeals can be a good option in situations where a VA disability claim has been denied. This option may be available following the initial denial of a claim or after an unfavorable decision in a supplemental claim or Higher-Level Review. If the BVA denies a claim, an additional appeal may be filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

If you are considering appealing your disability claim decision to the Board of Veterans' Appeals, it is highly recommended to seek legal representation from an attorney who is experienced in matters related to VA disability benefits, claims, denials, and appeals. At The Vet Law Office, we have extensive experience navigating the complex appeals process, and we are dedicated to advocating for veterans' rights. Attorney Farmer will guide you through each step of the appeals process, ensuring that your rights are protected and your voice is heard. To schedule a consultation, please contact us at 1-800-700-4174. We look forward to assisting you with your disability claim appeal.