Montgomery County Veterans (VA) Disability Lawyer
Despite their service to the country, many veterans get left behind when they reenter civilian life. If you’ve been abandoned by the institutions that are meant to support and care for you as a military veteran, the Law Office of Daniel Martin may be able to help. Our firm advocates for veterans with service-connected disabilities in their fight to access the VA disability benefits they’ve earned. Daniel Martin is a VA-accredited lawyer.
Navigating the VA disability benefits system can be intimidating and overwhelming, and veterans with illnesses and injuries have enough to worry about. Whether you’re applying for benefits for the first time, seeking an increase in your current disability rating, or appealing a denied VA disability claim, Daniel Martin has the targeted experience to provide you with personalized legal support along the way.
Understanding VA Disability Benefits
VA disability compensation is a monthly financial benefit paid to veterans with an injury or illness that was sustained or aggravated by their military service. The VA assigns qualified veterans a disability rating, which is based on the severity of their medical and psychological conditions. Disabilities covered by these benefits can include a wide range of conditions, including:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Tinnitus
- Illnesses related to chemical exposure
- Bladder injury
- Ulcerative colitis
- Headaches
- Joint problems
- Spine injuries
VA disability benefits exist to provide financial assistance to veterans with service-connected disabilities, but the process of accessing these benefits is often complex, time-consuming, and stressful. Delays and denials are common, and some approved veterans are given ratings that don’t appropriately reflect the severity of their conditions. Having a knowledgeable Montgomery County VA lawyer guide you through the application and appeals processes means your chances of a favorable outcome are higher, and you can spend your time and energy focusing on your health and well-being.
How a Tennessee VA Disability Lawyer Can Help
Navigating any federal government system can be challenging, and the VA’s disability compensation process is no different. Multiple forms, documentation requirements, and strict deadlines cause many veterans to struggle when trying to complete their claims and appeals on their own. Having an attorney provides valuable advantages and benefits in every part of the process, including:
Guidance for the Initial Claims Process
In order to be approved for VA disability compensation, you must prove that your medical condition is not only severe enough to be considered a disability but also that it is connected to your time in military service. A VA lawyer can help you gather the appropriate documentation to establish this, including medical records and service documents. Creating a compelling case to the VA is vital to proving your eligibility.
Assistance with Appealing a Denied Claim
Veterans who have had their claim denied or received a lower disability rating than they anticipated have the right to appeal the VA’s decision. There are multiple options and stages when appealing a VA decision, such as filing a supplemental claim or requesting a higher-level review. Daniel Martin can help you determine which option is the most appropriate for your situation and work tirelessly to prepare your appeal.
If your service-connected disability has worsened over time, you may be eligible for an increased disability rating. This increase will not happen automatically; you must request that the VA review your rating based on your current medical condition.
What Makes the VA Disability Claims Process Difficult?
Time-consuming, confusing, and high-stakes, the VA disability claims process is often frustrating for veterans who are trying to complete their applications alone. Among the more common challenges that many veterans face when seeking benefits are:
Denial of Service Connection
If there is insufficient evidence to establish that your medical condition was caused or exacerbated by your military service, the VA may deny your claim based on lack of service connection. Establishing that link between your service and injury or illness is crucial, and a VA lawyer will know how to build a compelling case that proves this vital relationship.
Inaccurate or Missing Medical Evidence
You must include thorough medical records to support your disability claim, but sifting through years of documents from various providers is overwhelming, and many veterans are unsure what type of evidence is needed. Failing to provide relevant or complete medical information and supporting documentation often leads to denial.
Lower Disability Ratings
Even when you are approved for VA disability compensation, the VA may award a disability rating that is lower than you believe you deserve. Underestimating the severity of your condition causes you to miss out on the benefits you have earned through your military service. Daniel Martin will help you gather the right evidence to fight for a higher rating that more accurately represents your level of impairment.
Missed Deadlines
The VA enforces strict deadlines for disability claims and appeals. Missing a filing date or submission deadline can significantly delay your application and jeopardize your approval.
Why the Law Office of Daniel Martin is the Right Choice
Daniel Martin has been helping people in Montgomery County and throughout Tennessee apply for disability benefits for 13 years. Working with him on your VA disability compensation claim ensures you have a dedicated advocate in your corner who is invested in your well-being and your right to veteran benefits. Contact the Law Office of Daniel Martin to schedule your free consultation.