Veterans can now hire attorneys to help with VA benefits claims
Under a new law that was enacted late last year, veterans now are able to hire attorneys or other agents to represent them in benefits claims before the Veterans Administration.
This is one of the most important provisions of the Veterans Benefits, Health Care and Information Technology Act of 2006, which was signed into law by President Bush on Dec. 27.
A policy dating from the Civil War had prevented veterans from hiring attorneys to help them in their quest for benefits until completing VA administrative proceedings, which usually takes several years. Under the new law, however, veterans are allowed to hire an attorney if they wish to help them navigate the complex VA benefits system.
Now that the firm is able to do so under the law, The Deuterman Law Group will most likely begin accepting VA benefits cases in late June. Joel Davis, who handles most of the firm’s Social Security disability cases, will be the lead attorney on these cases.
“We’re excited for the opportunity to veterans receive their VA benefits, just as we have helped many of our other clients receive the Social Security benefits that were originally denied them,” Davis said. “Going through this process can be very difficult and frustrating, and it’s good to have the assistance of an attorney who knows how to navigate the system and cut through the red tape. Veterans have been denied that right for too long.”
I don't think my Service rep is able to assist me in my hearing on April 25,2007,can I change or find experienced help before then. AN