Wisconsin VA Disability Benefits Lawyer

Veteran-Focused VA Disability Benefits Lawyer Serving Wisconsin

As a veteran in Wisconsin, you may be entitled to disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) if you have a service-connected disability. These benefits are designed to provide financial support and assistance to veterans who have suffered injuries or developed medical conditions as a result of their military service. However, navigating the VA disability claims process can be complex and challenging. At The Vet Law Office, we represent veterans who are pursuing VA disability benefits, helping them address issues related to the assignment of disability ratings, the exams and records evaluated during claims, or the denial of benefits.

The Importance of Compensation and Pension Exams

When filing a claim for VA disability benefits, a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam will often be required. This examination is conducted by a qualified healthcare professional appointed by the VA to evaluate a veteran's condition and determine its severity. The C&P exam plays an essential role in establishing medical evidence that supports a disability claim.

During the C&P exam, it is vital for a veteran to provide accurate information about their symptoms, their physical or mental limitations, and how service-connected health issues have affected their daily life. They should be prepared to discuss relevant medical records or other documents that provide information about their disabilities. Our attorney can help veterans prepare for C&P exams and ensure that all proper documentation is provided to examiners and VA officials.

Understanding Disability Ratings

The outcome of a VA disability claim depends on the assigned disability rating. These ratings are meant to express the severity of a veteran's condition as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more severe disabilities that will qualify for increased compensation. To determine the appropriate rating for a condition, the VA may consider various factors, such as medical evidence provided during the C&P exam, treatment records from private physicians or hospitals, statements from family members or friends regarding changes in functionality due to the disability, and other supporting documents. Veterans with multiple disabling conditions will receive a combined disability rating that is meant to indicate their overall level of impairment. Our attorney can help ensure that all appropriate information will be provided to the VA so disability ratings can be assessed correctly.

Addressing the Denial of a Claim or an Incorrect Disability Rating

In some cases, veterans may face challenges when their disability claims are denied or when they are assigned lower disability ratings than expected. This can be frustrating and disheartening, but with the help of an attorney, a veteran can appeal these decisions and take steps to receive the proper VA benefits.

If a claim is denied, or if a veteran disagrees with their assigned disability rating, there are several avenues for appeal:

1. Higher-Level Review

A veteran has the option to request a Higher-Level Review by a senior VA adjudicator. The adjudicator will go over all existing information about the case, including medical records or other documents that were originally submitted during the claim. They will determine whether there were any errors that led to an incorrect decision, but they will not consider any new evidence, and no additional documentation can be submitted.

2. Supplemental Claims

An alternative option is to file a supplemental claim to address new and relevant evidence that was not previously considered during the initial evaluation. A veteran may be able to provide information such as updated medical records, statements from healthcare providers, or testimonies from fellow service members who witnessed incidents leading to your condition to demonstrate their disability and ensure that the correct decisions can be made about eligibility for disability benefits.

3. Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA)

After an unfavorable decision following a higher-level review or supplemental claim, or in cases where a veteran wants to have their case reviewed by a judge, an appeal can be pursued directly through the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA). The BVA conducts an independent review of a case, and hearings may be held if necessary. A Veterans Law Judge will make a final decision regarding eligibility for benefits.

Contact Our Wisconsin VA Disability Benefits Attorney

Navigating the VA disability benefits claims process can be overwhelming without proper legal guidance. At The Vet Law Office, we understand how important these benefits are for veterans in Wisconsin who have sacrificed so much for our country. Our experienced attorney focuses on assisting veterans with VA disability claims. We provide comprehensive legal representation throughout every stage of the appeals process. If necessary, we can pursue appeals through the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, and we can also seek further appeals through the federal court system.

If you need assistance appealing a denial of your VA disability claim or challenging an incorrect disability rating, contact us at 1-800-700-4174 and arrange a consultation today. Let us help you fight for the benefits you deserve.

VA Health Centers in Wisconsin

William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans' Hospital
2500 Overlook Terrace
Madison, WI 53705

Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center
5000 West National Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53295

Tomah VA Medical Center
500 East Veterans Street
Tomah, WI 54660

Wisconsin VA Regional Office

Milwaukee Regional Office
5400 West National Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53214