Seattle VA Disability Lawyer
Dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is a frustrating and discouraging experience, especially when you know you deserve benefits but receive a claim denial or a rating that does not reflect the true extent of your service-connected disabilities. At Gustad Law Group, we stand with veterans throughout Seattle, across Washington state and nationwide who are fighting for the benefits they have earned. Led by VA-accredited attorney John-Paul Gustad, our team is dedicated to helping veterans successfully appeal unfair decisions and obtain the full compensation they are entitled to under the law.
For many veterans, the appeals process becomes the most important part of their case. It can affect their stability, their medical access, their families’ financial security, and their sense of justice. We understand that a denied or underrated claim is more than a setback; it is personal, stressful, and often deeply disheartening. That is why we approach every appeal with the compassion, determination, and attention to detail that veterans deserve. When you work with our Seattle VA disability lawyer, you can count on a team that listens, cares, and advocates tirelessly from start to finish.
Why VA Appeals Are So Complex
Even strong disability claims are frequently denied or underrated by the VA. An inaccurate disability rating, a misunderstanding of medical evidence, or a misapplication of the law can leave veterans waiting months or years for support they should have received long ago. Appeals require a careful review of the record, identification of legal errors, and a persuasive presentation of why the original decision was incorrect.
Many veterans are surprised to learn that VA errors are exceedingly common. Medical opinions may be incomplete, evidence may be overlooked, or the VA may fail to recognize how a condition worsens over time. Some bureaucratic decisions lack sufficient explanation or rely on outdated examinations. These problems make appeals a critical avenue for correcting the record and securing rightful benefits.
John-Paul Gustad and his staff have spent years building a deep understanding of how VA decision-making works and what mistakes to look for. Because John-Paul is VA-accredited, he is authorized to represent veterans directly before the VA and has helped countless clients challenge inaccurate decisions and secure higher ratings and back pay. Our team’s experience allows us to spot legal and procedural errors quickly and build strong, evidence-based appeals on behalf of veterans and their families.
Types of VA Appeals We Handle
Every appeal is different, but our goal is always the same: assert your rights and obtain the highest possible outcome. Veterans come to us when they have received:
- A complete denial of service-connected disability benefits
- A disability rating that is too low
- A denial of Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
- A denial involving secondary conditions, worsening symptoms, or new evidence
- A decision that fails to consider all eligible conditions or aggravation
How We Approach a VA Appeal in Seattle
Appealing a VA decision requires strategy, preparation, and persistence. At Gustad Law Group in Seattle, we take a hands-on, proactive approach to make sure your case is thoroughly developed and persuasively argued.
We begin by listening. Every veteran’s story matters, and every detail of your service and medical history can be a key piece of your appeal. Once we understand your situation, we gather and analyze your VA file, medical records, decision letters, and any prior examinations. Then we identify the strongest appeal path to a successful resolution, whether a Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim with new evidence, or formal appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
From there, we work closely with you to develop supporting evidence, which may include medical opinions, new evaluations, lay statements, service records, or expert analysis. John-Paul Gustad is known for his direct, involved approach in hearings, ensuring that decision-makers fully understand the facts and the law. He and his team prepare every appeal with the expectation that it may require a Board hearing, and we never cut corners in advocating for our clients.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed and supported. VA cases often take time, but you will never be left wondering what is happening or what comes next. We are here for you, every step of the way.
Common Reasons the VA Denies or Underrates Claims
Many appeals succeed because the original decision contains significant errors. Veterans frequently come to us after experiencing:
- Inadequate or incorrect Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams
- Failure to acknowledge worsening conditions or secondary conditions
- Insufficient consideration of service records or medical evidence
- Incorrect application of VA disability law or rating criteria
- Lack of explanation or unclear reasoning in the VA decision
These issues are not your fault. They are correctable through the appeals process, and a well-organized legal strategy can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
Why Legal Representation Matters in a VA Appeal
VA disability law is intricate, and the appeals process involves strict rules about the types of evidence, deadlines, and filing methods allowed at each stage. Veterans who handle appeals on their own often face delays or miss opportunities to strengthen their case. Working with an experienced, VA-accredited attorney helps ensure that your appeal is properly filed, thoroughly supported, and communicated clearly to the decision-maker.
John-Paul Gustad brings decades of experience and has personally represented thousands of clients. Our long-standing staff works closely with him to support veterans both legally and personally throughout the appeals process. We understand how important your benefits are, not only financially, but also in acknowledging the sacrifices you have made. We take that responsibility seriously.
Dedicated Support for Veterans Across Washington
From our main office in Seattle, we serve veterans across Washington state and nationwide. We know that many veterans face health challenges, mobility limitations, or geographic constraints that make legal help difficult to access. Our team is committed to meeting you where you are, whether in-person or remotely, and working with you in the ways that make the process easiest and most comfortable.
Our goal is simple: to help veterans get the benefits they earned through their courage, service, and sacrifice.
Frequently Asked Questions About VA Disability Claims
What should I do if my VA disability claim was denied?
A denial is not the end of your case. You have the right to appeal, and many denials are overturned with additional evidence or a stronger legal argument. Contact our team so we can review your decision letter and help determine the best appeal option.
How long do VA appeals take?
The timeline varies depending on the type of appeal and whether a Board hearing is required. Some appeals resolve in several months; others take longer. We stay proactive throughout the process and keep you informed at every step.
Can I appeal if my disability rating is too low?
Yes. Veterans can appeal underrated claims, including situations where conditions have worsened or where the VA overlooked important evidence. We regularly help veterans secure higher ratings and back pay.
Do I need new evidence for an appeal?
Some appeal paths require new evidence, while others focus on identifying legal or factual errors in the original decision. We help determine the right strategy for your situation.
Can a lawyer really make a difference in a VA appeal?
Absolutely. VA disability law is complex, and mistakes can significantly delay or weaken a case. A VA-accredited attorney can help ensure your appeal is thorough, timely, and persuasive.
VA Disability Claim Denied or Underrated? Call Gustad Law Group in Seattle for a Free Consultation
If your VA claim was denied or underrated, you do not have to face the appeals process alone. We are here to listen, support you, and fight for the benefits you earned. Contact Gustad Law Group today for a free consultation. And because we operate on a no recovery, no fee basis, you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let our dedicated team stand with you and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.