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Veterans Disability

Veteran Disability Lawyers in Davenport, IA

Representing Veterans in Clinton County, IA, Muscatine County, IA, Rock Island County, IL & Scott County, IA

VA disability benefits are monthly, tax-free payments provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans who have sustained injuries or illnesses related to their military service. These benefits aim to compensate for the loss of earning capacity due to a service-connected condition. The amount of compensation varies based on the severity of the disability, which is rated on a scale from 0% to 100%.

At Bowman, DePree & Murphy, we are committed to assisting veterans in navigating the complex process of securing VA disability benefits. We understand the sacrifices made by our service members and are here to provide the support and legal resources needed throughout the claim process. Our team gives you the advantage of 60 years of combined experience in serving veterans. 

Schedule a free initial consultation with our Davenport Veterans’ disability lawyers about your case. Reach Bowman, DePree & Murphy at (563) 412-4755 or email us on our contact form. 

Stay In The Know

  • When Should I Apply for Benefits?
    Unless you have an obvious long-term disability, the best time to apply for Social Security disability benefits is 6-9 months after you stop working.
  • When Do You Suggest I Hire a Lawyer?
    Most claimants wait until their claims are denied on reconsideration before hiring a lawyer. Most observers agree this timing works well because it is at a hearing that having a lawyer truly makes a difference.
  • When Am I Likely to Receive a Hearing?
    It can take up to two years from request until a hearing is held and a decision issued, but the time varies from state to state.

Who Is Eligible for VA Disability Benefits?

Eligibility for VA disability benefits depends on several factors. You must have a current medical condition linked to your military service. This includes conditions directly related to service, conditions aggravated by service, or secondary conditions caused by a service-connected disability.

Generally, veterans must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Certain other-than-honorable discharges might still qualify, but more scrutiny will be applied.

Adequate medical evidence must be provided to substantiate the severity and service connection of your condition. This includes medical records, treatment history, and statements from healthcare providers.

Unlike the Social Security Administration (SSA), which has a specific List of Impairments, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not maintain a consolidated list of impairments that automatically qualify veterans for disability benefits. 

Instead, the VA uses the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) to evaluate and rate each veteran's disabilities based on their severity and impact on daily functioning. The VASRD outlines criteria for a wide range of conditions and provides detailed guidelines on assigning a percentage rating to each condition. 

This percentage, the disability rating, directly influences the veteran's compensation amount. The process is highly individualized, considering the unique aspects of each veteran's service-related conditions and their overall health.

Types of VA Disability Benefits

The VA offers a range of benefits to address the various needs of disabled veterans. Disability compensation consists of monthly payments based on the severity of the condition. Pension benefits are needs-based for wartime veterans with limited income and permanent disabilities not necessarily related to service. 

Healthcare benefits provide access to a comprehensive range of medical services provided by the VA healthcare system. Vocational rehabilitation and employment services aid with job training, employment accommodations, resumé development, and job-seeking skills coaching. 

The GI Bill provides education and training benefits. The Home Loan Guaranty assists with homebuying through favorable loan terms. Finally, several types of life insurance cover veterans, active duty, and reserve members. 

Common Issues Faced by Veterans in Disability Claims

Many veterans experience problems like:

  • Initial claim denials: The VA denies a substantial number of initial disability claims, often because of insufficient evidence or paperwork errors.
  • Low disability ratings: Veterans sometimes receive a disability rating that does not accurately reflect the severity of their condition, resulting in lower benefits than they deserve.
  • Delays in processing: Even after submitting a claim, veterans often wait months or even years for a decision, during which time they may face financial strain.
  • Appeals: Many veterans find themselves needing to appeal a VA decision, whether it's for a denied claim or an inadequate disability rating. The appeals process can be complicated, requiring a detailed understanding of VA law and procedures.

How to Apply for VA Disability Benefits

Applying for VA disability benefits can be challenging. Bowman, DePree & Murphy can guide you through every step. 

Here's an overview of the application process:

  • Gather documentation: Collect all relevant medical and service treatment records and other evidence supporting your claim.
  • Apply: You can file your claim through the VA’s online system (eBenefits), by mail, or by visiting a VA regional office.
  • VA review: The VA will review your application, which may involve additional medical exams (Compensation and Pension (C&P exams)) to evaluate the severity of your condition.
  • Rating decision: The VA will decide on your claim, assigning a disability rating and corresponding compensation amount if approved.
  • Appeals: If your claim is denied or you disagree with the rating assigned, you can appeal the decision. Our experienced attorneys can assist you in crafting a solid appeal.

Bowman, DePree & Murphy provides you with the professional support required to navigate the VA disability benefits process. Our decades of experience can make a difference in your case.

How Our Veterans Disability Attorney Can Help You

We can assist you by:

  • Assist with the initial application: Filing a comprehensive and accurate initial application is critical to avoiding delays or denials. We help gather the necessary medical evidence, service records, and any other documentation to support your claim, ensuring that every detail is presented in a way that aligns with VA requirements.
  • Prepare for hearings and appeals: If your claim has been denied or you have received a lower-than-expected disability rating, we can help you file an appeal. This process involves compiling additional evidence, preparing legal arguments, and representing you at hearings before the VA or the Board of Veterans' Appeals.
  • Seek increased ratings: If you believe that your disability rating does not fully account for the extent of your condition, we can help you file for an increased rating. Whether your condition has worsened over time or you feel the initial rating was incorrect, we will work to present a compelling case for reevaluation.
  • Identify secondary conditions: Many veterans suffer from secondary conditions that are connected to their service-related disabilities. These conditions may not be immediately obvious, but they can increase your overall rating and compensation. We can help identify these secondary conditions and gather evidence to link them to your service.
  • Expedite the process: We understand how critical disability benefits are for veterans and their families. While delays are common in the VA system, we work to expedite your case by ensuring all documentation is complete and by staying in constant communication with VA representatives to move your claim forward as quickly as possible.

Contact us today at (563) 412-4755 for a consultation, and let our Davenport Veteran Benefits lawyers help secure the benefits you deserve.

Hear From Our Happy Clients

See Why We Will Make a Difference for Your Case & Get You the Rights You Deserve.
    "I cannot say enough positive things about having Thad Murphy as my disability lawyer."
    He walked me thru each step of the process and made sure everything was in order and ready for my appeal. I spoke to many different lawyers before I decided to go with Mr. Murphy and I think it was one of the most important decisions I ever made.
    - Tim S.
    "I could never have done it again or been successful without Mr. Murphy's help.& dedication to his clients."
    I tried 10+ years to get my disability only to be told No over and over. I was frustrated, worried, and tired of trying & fighting only to be told NO yet again. A friend told me about Bowman, DePree & Murphy in Davenport. I'd heard the name in pass
    - Charity M.
    "I can now rest my head."
    I just like to thank you Michael Dupree for being my savior which has changed my life for the better unfortunately disability is a part now but thanks to you.
    - Nathaniel L.
    "Great Disability attorney! My decision to work with Mr. Thad Murphy was life changing, at the right time."
    Mr. Murphy was able to get my disability on the first appeal and charged a very fair rate which was under the cap from my settlement of back pay from being off for five years.
    - Benjamin B.
    "I love this place!"
    They helped me out with my disability when I couldn't get it on my own. Thank you so much y'all!
    - Tammy H.
    "I only wish I would have reached out sooner. Fair, Honest, and will work for your Win."
    HIGHLY RECOMMEND this Office!! My case was very complex, and had me exhausted. I had been looking for the right Attorney, and found him right here. Thad Murphy handled my case in an amazing amount of time.
    - Sandra R.
    "Everything you would expect."
    Did a great job with explaining the steps we need to take to secure our future and our children.
    - Amy S.
    "I would recommend him or this office to anyone who needs help!"
    I had the honor to work with Mr. Murphy. He handled my disability case. He is very understanding and is there if you have questions.
    - Amber W.
    "They got my disability for me very quickly."
    So very pleased! I referred 5 friends to them and they got their disability for them as well! Two from Davenport area, and three in Burlington!! GREAT ATTORNEYS!!! I'm still recommending them!
    - Melody L.

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We’re here to help answer your questions. Judicial matters can be complicated, we will make it easy to understand. We take great pride in using our expertise for you and look forward to hearing from you.

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