VLG Blog

Compensation & Pension Exams and DBQs

Once you have begun an application for veterans disability benefits, you may be required to complete a medical exam called the Compensation & Pension Exam. This examination is sometimes referred ...

Retrospective Medical Opinions

The Challenge of Sparse Medical Records We are all familiar with cases involving sparse medical records. Claim folders with minimal treatment records, both service and post-service, pose a challenge ...

Veteran Unemployability and Volunteer Work

The issue of volunteering is an important one for veterans, because vets have always contributed to their communities and the country. After facing the challenges of living with a disabling condition ...

Nexus Letter

Navigating Disability Benefits and Deportation: A Veteran's Dilemma

Service-connected psychiatric disability and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are commonalities among veterans with substance abuse challenges and involvement with the criminal justice system. While ...

The Meaning of the Monk Case: Monk v. Shulkin Case Class Actions

Recently, the Federal Circuit overturned years of precedent in the case of Monk v. Shulkin, F.3d (April 26, 2017). The decision allows the CAVC (U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims) to approve ...

Why Might I Need a Buddy Statement for My VA Disability Claim?

Injuries that occur during your service in the military can impact your ability to function for the rest of your life. You may have decided to file an application for veterans disability compensation ...

Discharge Upgrades for Veterans Eligible For Benefits

Veterans must have a discharge from military service under honorable conditions to be eligible for benefits from the Veterans Administration.

Exposure to Agent Orange

PORTIONS OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BECOME OUTDATED AS OF PASSAGE OF THE PACT ACT IN AUGUST 10, 2022. See here for an updated discussion of Agent Orange disability claims.

Obtaining Medical Records​