LAW 886TUT - Veterans Legal Practicum

The Veterans Advocacy Practicum prepares law students to become effective and compassionate attorneys through interdisciplinary collaboration and pro bono advocacy, empowering them to be a voice for veterans seeking benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The practicum’s classroom instruction and student work will primarily focus on filing disability compensation claims with the VA, appealing denials of such claims, and requesting increases in approved disability compensation. Additional administrative law matters may also arise to further a veteran’s compensation. You will receive training on the steps involved in filing disability compensation claims, including client interviewing, analysis of medical records, requesting and coordinating medical examinations, brief writing, and preparing client claim submissions. By learning how a federal agency operates to administer a major benefits program, students will also gain insight into administrative law and the many challenges associated with government efforts to do good. No prior military experience or knowledge is necessary to participate in this practicum.

Credits: 1-6