Despite their sacrifices, many Veterans struggle with the transition back to civilian life. Many of these Veterans should have received disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, some have sought help from the VA only to be denied the financial or medical assistance they desperately need. This is where Berry Law steps in to help.
The firm’s commitment to helping those who have served our country stems from a deep understanding of the challenges Veterans face when returning home from service.
At Berry Law, many of the attorneys and staff members come from a military background, giving them a unique understanding of the obstacles Veterans face when dealing with the VA. The sense of duty they felt while serving in the military continues to drive them as they represent their clients.
John Stevens Berry Sr., the founder of Berry Law, served three tours in Vietnam and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service. During his time in Vietnam, he transitioned from Infantry to JAG Corps, where he worked as the chief defense counsel for the largest court-martial jurisdiction in the country.
In this role, he traveled throughout Vietnam, protecting the rights of service members. One of his most notable cases involved successfully defending five Green Berets who were charged with the murder of a double agent in 1969.
This experience, among others, inspired him to continue defending Veterans upon his return to the United States. Since its establishment as a Veterans law firm, Berry Law has represented thousands of Veterans struggling with the VA throughout the country.
Veterans face numerous challenges upon returning home from service that can have a profound impact on their physical and mental health, as well as their ability to reintegrate into civilian life. These struggles often lead to a need for disability benefits, as Veterans find themselves unable to work or maintain a stable living situation due to service-connected disabilities.
One of the most prevalent issues among Veterans is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the Rand Center for Military Health Policy Research, at least 20% of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans have been diagnosed with PTSD and/or depression. PTSD can manifest in various ways, including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and difficulty in social situations. These symptoms can make it challenging for Veterans to maintain relationships, hold steady employment, and manage daily tasks.
In addition to mental health concerns, many Veterans return home with physical disabilities incurred during their service. These can range from chronic pain and hearing loss to more severe conditions such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and amputations. These physical disabilities can limit a Veteran’s ability to work and engage in activities they once enjoyed, leading to a decreased quality of life and financial strain.
The combination of mental and physical health challenges often contributes to another significant problem faced by Veterans: homelessness. A study found that at least 54% of the homeless Veteran population suffers from mental and/or physical disabilities. These disabilities can make it difficult for Veterans to secure and maintain stable housing, as they may struggle to find employment or manage their daily needs.
Exposure to toxic substances: Many Veterans were exposed to hazardous materials during their service, such as Agent Orange, burn pits, and depleted uranium. These exposures can lead to a range of health problems, including respiratory issues, certain cancers, and neurological disorders.
Musculoskeletal injuries: The physical demands of military service can take a toll on a Veteran’s body, leading to chronic pain, joint problems, and other musculoskeletal disorders.
Military sexual trauma (MST): Veterans who experienced sexual assault or harassment during their service may develop mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
By providing financial support and access to healthcare, disability benefits can help Veterans manage their conditions, maintain a stable living situation, and improve their overall quality of life.
However, navigating the VA disability claims process can be a daunting task, particularly for Veterans who are already struggling with physical and mental health challenges. This is where the assistance of an experienced VA disability benefits lawyer can be invaluable.
Lawyers who focus on VA disability claims understand the complex regulations and procedures involved in the process. They can help Veterans gather the necessary evidence to support their claims, ensuring that all relevant medical records, service records, and other documentation are submitted correctly and on time. A skilled VA disability benefits lawyer can also help Veterans appeal denied claims or appeal for increased ratings and appropriate effective dates. The appeals process can be very complex.
Dedicated VA disability benefits law firms often have established relationships with medical professionals who can provide expert opinions and testimony to support their clients’ claims. This can be invaluable in cases where the VA has denied a claim due to insufficient medical evidence.
Many Veterans have experienced unimaginable trauma during their service, and the process of seeking benefits can be emotionally challenging. At Berry Law, the attorneys and staff members understand these challenges firsthand. As Veterans themselves, they can relate to their clients’ experiences and provide the compassionate support they need during this difficult time.
Having an experienced advocate on their side can greatly increase a Veteran’s chances of success.
For Veterans denied disability benefits or struggling to navigate the VA claims process, the experienced attorneys at Berry Law can help. With a deep understanding of the challenges Veterans face and a commitment to protecting their rights, Berry Law is uniquely positioned to provide guidance and support.
To learn more about how Berry Law can assist with a VA disability claim, call the firm toll-free at 888-883-2483 or fill out our online contact form. The firm represents Veterans in all 50 states, and our legal team is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide assistance.
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