The results of cases at the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) have improved for veterans represented by attorneys and service organizations this year. In cases where attorneys represent veterans, in Fiscal Year 2014, only 13.7% of the cases where a veteran was represented by an attorney were denied. This number has gone down from 15.4% last year. This is impressive, when you consider the numbers for the more popular service organizations: American Legion (21.1%), Disabled American Veterans ( 19.5%), Veterans of Foreign Wars (22.6%), and State Service Organizations (23.6%). The overall denial rate by the Board, including cases where the veteran has no representation, is 21.5%.

 

Most cases are still remanded by the Board, usually for a new medical opinion or to obtain missing medical records.  47.8 percent of attorney cases are remanded; compared to 45.5% of all cases.

 

The win rate for attorneys is 35.3% (up from 31% last year), compared to the overall win rate of 29.2%. Of the popular service organizations, the DAV and VFW have the best win rates, with 29.6% and 29.5%, respectively.

Veterans without any form of representation before the BVA only win their cases 22% of the time, and nearly a third of such cases are denied.

 

Chart of BVA Decisions in 2014

These statistics show what a good idea it is for veterans, at a minimum, to contact an attorney for a consultation about their case. Call my office toll-free at (877)629-1712 to discuss how we can help you win your case before the BVA.

Post A Comment