Top 4 Factors to Consider When Hiring a VA Lawyer
When a veteran receives a denial letter from the VA or is rated below what they deserve, it’s time to hire an attorney. However, not every attorney is created equal. Here are some factors to consider when hiring a VA lawyer:
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Qualifications
There are several qualifications to consider when choosing a VA lawyer. First, ensure the attorney has enough experience handling veterans’ disability claims. This will ensure they know the process and can handle your case correctly. They should also be able to communicate clearly with you about the status of your case.
You should also make sure that the VA accredits the attorney. This is important because it shows the attorney has extensive knowledge of VA laws and regulations. This will help you avoid any pitfalls that might lead to your claim being denied.
Experience
The best VA lawyers have extensive experience handling various veterans’ disability claims. This means they understand how the system works and how to get the best results for their clients.
While a VSO is a legitimate option for assistance, they offer a different level of expertise than a lawyer. They often only have one person with a textbook understanding of the process and do not have the resources that a law firm does.
A good attorney will use a team of medical professionals to ensure that your case meets the standard required by the Board of Veterans Appeals and the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. They can also provide the evidence for an effective appeal if your claim is denied. Lastly, they will be able to assist with obtaining past-due benefits by splitting any lump-sum back paycheck that is awarded from the VA on your behalf.
Fees
Many veterans have questions about how attorneys bill for their work. It’s important to understand that if you hire an attorney who specializes in VA disability claims, you can expect reasonable fees. Attorneys who don’t bill reasonably for their services should be avoided.
Attorneys can ask for reimbursement for expenses such as travel to hearings, cost of medical records, and expert witness testimony. They can also charge for time spent working on your case. For example, if the VA denies your claim at the Regional Office level, but you win your appeal in the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAV), then the law allows your lawyer to be paid 20% of the awarded lump sum back pay.
Read the attorney’s contract carefully and ask them to explain any parts you need help understanding. A reputable attorney will always take the time to go over their contracts with clients by telephone.
Communication
When hiring a virtual legal assistant, it’s important to communicate clearly with them. This will ensure they understand your goals and help them perform their duties more efficiently. It will also ensure you are not paying for something that isn’t being done properly.
A veteran should seek an attorney who concentrates all or most of his practice in veterans disability law. Many personal injury or negligence attorneys have added veterans’ disability law to their menu of services.
Hiring a VA lawyer requires careful consideration of various factors, ranging from their expertise and reputation to their communication style and billing practices. By assessing these aspects, you can make an informed decision and secure competent legal representation for your VA-related issues.
