Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

  • You're not required to hire an attorney, but having one significantly increases your chances of success. VA appeals involve complex regulations, strict deadlines, and specific legal standards. I bring my experience as a federal prosecutor and fraud investigator to find errors in VA decisions and build compelling legal arguments.

    If your case is straightforward or doesn't need legal representation, I'll tell you honestly during your free case review.

  • I bring a unique combination of experience:

    • Former Federal Prosecutor - I know how to build winning legal arguments

    • Former Fraud Investigator (FCC OIG) - I know how to find errors in bureaucratic decisions

    • Denied Military Service Twice for Medical Reasons - I understand government medical denials personally

    • Military Spouse - Married to a veteran with 15 years of service

    • Solo Practice - You work with me directly, not a team

    • Lower Fee - 20% contingency (vs. 25-33% at larger firms)

    I'm also admitted to practice before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC), so I can take your case to federal court if necessary.

  • You work with me directly throughout your entire appeal. I personally review your medical records, draft your legal briefs, and represent you at hearings. You won't be handed off to paralegals or case managers.

    When you call, you talk to me. When there's an update, you hear it from me.

  • During your free case review, I'll:

    1. Listen to your situation and review any documents you can provide

    2. Identify potential errors in the VA's decision

    3. Explain your appeal options (Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board Appeal)

    4. Give you an honest assessment of your case

    5. Let you know if I think you need an attorney - even if that means telling you that you don't need to hire me

    There's no obligation, no pressure, and no cost.

  • I respond to all inquiries within 24 hours. If you call during business hours, you'll often reach me directly.

  • I handle all claims associated with VA disability benefits including:

    • Denied disability claims

    • Rating increases (10% to 100%)

    • Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU)

    • PTSD, sleep apnea, tinnitus, orthopedic conditions

    • Camp Lejeune toxic exposure claims

    • PACT Act presumptive conditions

    • Effective date corrections and back pay

    • Clear and Unmistakable Error (CUE) claims

    • Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC) appeals

  • Yes. VA disability appeals are handled through the VA's national system, not state courts. I represent veterans nationwide before the Board of Veterans' Appeals and the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

    Your location doesn't matter - I can represent you regardless of where you live.

Working With Me

  • I charge 20% of your past-due benefits only if I win your case. This is lower than the industry standard of 25-33%.

    There are no upfront fees, no hourly charges, and no hidden costs. If I don't win your case, you owe me nothing.

  • You only pay if we win. When the VA awards you past-due benefits (back pay), the VA will pay you an amount that is based on your rating percentage, your effective date, and your award date. I charge 20% of the backpay amount for any appealed claims.

    Your future monthly benefits are entirely yours - I only take a percentage of the one-time back pay award.

  • If your case requires an independent medical examination or expert medical opinion, I cover the cost upfront. You only reimburse me if we win your case and secure benefits.

  • Yes. VA-accredited attorneys are regulated by the VA Office of General Counsel. We must meet specific criteria, maintain proper accreditation, and follow VA fee regulations.

    You can verify my accreditation (POA Code JJQ) on the VA's website: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

Fees & Costs

  • If your claim is denied, you have three appeal options under the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA):

    1. Supplemental Claim - Submit new and relevant evidence

    2. Higher-Level Review - Have a senior reviewer examine the decision (no new evidence)

    3. Board Appeal - Have a Veterans Law Judge review your case

    I help you choose the best option based on your specific situation and the errors in your VA decision.

  • Timelines vary by appeal type:

    • Higher-Level Review: 4-6 months

    • Board of Veterans Appeals: 1-3 years depending on which docket you choose

    • Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims: 1-2 years

    I track all deadlines and keep you informed throughout the process, but I can't speed up the VA's timeline - nobody can.

    Your future monthly benefits are entirely yours - I only take a percentage of the one-time back pay award.

  • Absolutely. Many veterans receive initial ratings that don't reflect the true severity of their conditions. I help veterans increase ratings from 10% to 100%, including pursuing Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) when appropriate.

  • You typically have 1 year from your decision date to file an appeal. Missing this deadline can cost you years of back pay or eliminate your right to appeal entirely.

    If you're approaching a deadline, contact me immediately. Even if it's just a few days before the deadline, I can often help.

  • The CAVC is a federal court that reviews decisions from the Board of Veterans' Appeals. If the Board denies your appeal and you believe they made a legal error, you can appeal to the CAVC.

    I'm admitted to practice before the CAVC, which means I can represent you at the federal court level if necessary.

  • Key documents include:

    • DD-214 (discharge papers)

    • Service treatment records

    • VA medical records

    • Private medical records

    • C&P examination reports

    • Lay statements from you, family, or fellow service members

    During your free case review, I'll identify what documentation you need and help you obtain it.

The Appeals Process

  • A VA-accredited attorney is a lawyer who has been approved by the VA Office of General Counsel to represent veterans in disability claims and appeals. We must meet specific qualifications, pass a background check, and maintain proper accreditation.

    My POA (Power of Attorney) Code is JJQ. You can verify my accreditation on the VA's website.

  • I served as:

    • Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois (federal prosecutor)

    • Investigative Attorney for the FCC Office of Inspector General (fraud investigations)

    I received the U.S. Attorney's Office Distinguished Service Award - the highest award given by the office.

  • I'm not a veteran, but I'm part of a military family. My wife served in the Air Force and currently serves as an officer in the United States Public Health Service with 15 years of total service. I've been a military spouse for 11 years.

  • I'm a sustaining member of the National Organization of Veterans Advocates (NOVA), the premier organization for attorneys who represent veterans.

    I'm also admitted to practice before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC).

  • I'm here to help. Contact me for a free case review:

    Call: (202) 256-7063
    Email: Use the contact form

    There's no obligation and no cost to discuss your case.

My Background

Get Your Free Case Review - Never Any Upfront Costs

Need help with your VA Benefits application? Contact Matt for a free consultation.