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New England Veterans Disability Lawyer

VA disability benefits are a lifesaving source of income for many veterans who were injured or became ill because of their military service. However, the VA claims process can be complicated, difficult to navigate, and produce unfair results, leaving some without the critical financial support they need.

The compassionate veterans disability attorneys with Rob Levine Law are dedicated to advocating for those in need, using their skills and experience to help thousands of veterans receive the VA disability benefits they’ve earned. Contact us online or call (800) 742-3920 today for a free case evaluation.

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Rob Levine

Legally Reviewed by:

Rob Levine

Last Updated:

July 16, 2025

How Our Veterans Disability Lawyers Can Help

Hiring a lawyer experienced with veterans disability gives you the best chance of success. Due to his experience as a military police officer, Rob Levine understands the struggles veterans have when trying to obtain their disability benefits. From his work as a military police officer, retired local Central Falls police officer, paramedic, and ski patroller through his legal and entrepreneurial careers, Rob has made a lifelong commitment to serving his community and keeping others safe.

Our team has more than 75 combined years of experience handling veterans disability claims. We’ve helped more than 50,000 people recover over $2 billion in compensation.

We serve veterans nationwide, even in states where we don’t have an office. We’re willing to meet with you remotely to discuss your case and can help you file your initial claim. The consultation is free, and we won’t charge you any fees unless you win your case.

Our notable case results include the following:

  • $750,000 and 100 percent disability benefits dating back to 1982 for a Rhode Island Air Force veteran who was sexually assaulted by a psychologist during their entrance exam.
  • $540,000 and 100 percent disability benefits for a Kansas Army veteran severely injured when serving from 1964 to 1965.
  • $435,000 and 100 percent disability benefits for a Virginia veteran who developed post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, after witnessing the drowning of a service member.
  • $405,000 for a Kentucky Army veteran with PTSD and a traumatic brain injury.

How Veterans Disability Benefits Are Determined

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs processes VA disability claims by assigning each veteran a disability rating between 0 and 100 percent based on how severely their condition affects their life. A 100 percent rating means total disability, allowing the veteran to receive the highest available monthly compensation and full access to other benefits. Lower ratings result in lower monthly payments and reduced access to other VA benefits.

The VA considers multiple factors when assigning a disability rating, including medical records provided by the patient. The VA may also decide to conduct its own exam for additional evidence.

For veterans with more than one disability, the VA will combine the ratings together to represent a combined disability rating. A veteran’s combined rating will directly determine the amount of his or her monthly monetary benefits.

The VA Disability Claims Process

You can file a claim for VA disability benefits online or by mail. Make sure your social security number is correct, and submit any medical records related to your disability. Once the VA receives your application, it will check for any missing information before moving on to evidence gathering. The VA will then review your claim and determine whether it has sufficient evidence. The VA may ask you to submit more information or undergo a medical exam. It may also ask your private health care provider for medical records. Once there is enough evidence, the VA will decide whether to approve your claim and send you a letter explaining its decision. If successful, the VA will assign you a disability rating and describe when you’ll start receiving payments. According to the VA, the claims process currently takes roughly Loading… on average. A knowledgeable veterans disability lawyer can help you fill out all necessary forms and include all relevant evidence with your initial application, speeding up the review process and getting you your benefits as quickly as possible.
Steps of what happens after filing a VA disability claim

Appealing a Denied VA Disability Claim

If you’re disappointed by the VA’s decision, you can contest it and try again. The VA appeals process gives you the following three options:

  • Submit a supplemental claim to have the VA consider evidence that wasn’t available before.
  • Ask for a higher-level review, which may have a different outcome based on an error or difference of opinion.
  • Appeal the decision to the Board of Veterans Appeals in Washington, D.C., who will assign a Veterans Law Judge to review your claim.

Our veterans disability lawyers can help determine the best appeal option and fight through the decision review process until you get the benefits you deserve.

Common Veterans Disability Conditions and Claims

Some of the most common injuries and conditions behind veterans disability claims include:

The VA considers some disabilities to be so-called presumptive conditions, presuming without additional evidence that they are connected to a veterans military service. If a claimant has a presumptive condition and meets certain criteria, they do not have to prove their disability is related to their service. For example, anxiety, heart disease, and malnutrition are among the presumed conditions for former prisoners of war.

However, some conditions may have less obvious connections to military service, leading to a difficult disability claims process. An experienced veterans disability lawyer can help you identify and gather the evidence to prove a service connection and successfully secure your VA benefits.

Why You Need a Veterans Disability Lawyer

Hiring the right veterans disability lawyer can save you the stress of figuring out the complicated claims process on your own. Our attorneys know the legal system and how the VA operates. We’ve helped thousands of veterans file successful claims and secure the benefits they deserve, and we can do the same for you.

Our Veterans disability lawyers can guide you through filing the proper paperwork and gathering all the important evidence you’ll need, helping you get a quick turnaround and secure the highest possible VA rating. If the VA won’t give you the benefits you’ve earned, we’ll fight aggressively through the appeals process to maximize your potential recovery.

"What makes Rob Levine Law the right choice? Your lawyer at Rob Levine is supported by a team of case managers, paralegals and support staff. Your lawyer at Rob Levine is supported by the very best technology. And your Lawyer at Rob Levine, is part of a team of attorneys who can rely on each other for a culture of excellence and winning for clients"

– Quote from Michael Gardiner

Michael Gardiner is a seasoned litigator with 35 years of civil and criminal defense experience, licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, known for successful advocacy before the Rhode Island Supreme Court, and joined Rob Levine Law in 2023.

Michael Gardiner

Litigation Attorney -
Personal Injury

Michael Gardiner, Litigation Attorney - Personal Injury

Hear from Our Satisfied Clients

I think every veteran should work with this firm.

After all these years and all this time, finally, a person and a firm will stand by me. Jairo Manchola was a complete professional and answered all my questions. I feel like I have a coach in my corner to take on the monster known as Veterans Affairs. I look forward to working with Rob Levine Law in the near future and helping me get the compensation I deserve and fought for. Once again, thank you, Jairo, for making this very easy and non-drama.

Edward C.

Thank you, everyone, for the continued support!

As a military veteran, I have pursued a disability claim on my own and with multiple NSOs. While my disability was +50%, it was obvious to me a law firm was necessary to help navigate the appeal process and all the details involved with it. I was astounded at how knowledgeable the firm was about my particular case and how hard-working and persistent they are with the case. Since working with Rob Lavine Law, my disability rating has increased, and I am confident it will continue to climb. The attorney I work closest (Dvora) with is a great communicator, responsive, patient, and has superior listening skills.

Meghann G.

I would recommend them to any Veteran needing assistance.

I am a Marine Vietnam Combat Veteran who was exposed to Agent Orange. This Law Firm has and is currently representing me knowledgeably, competently, and professionally.

Rick C.

I highly recommend them and will continue to seek their services and advice.

Rob Levine Law have been very helpful in my request to receive Compensation Benefits for injuries I incurred while in service. I’ve suggested their services to a number of Veterans seeking legal services.

Sandyabdullah M.

Veterans Disability Resources

Let THE HEAVY HITTER® Win for You—Contact Rob Levine Law Today

You’ve fought enough battles. Our skilled veterans disability lawyers are ready to fight for you. We’ll work hard to get you the maximum possible benefits as quickly as possible—and we won’t charge you anything unless you win. Call us today at (800) 742-3920 to schedule a free case evaluation.

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Veterans Disability FAQs

Can I receive VA disability compensation and continue to work?

In the Social Security disability system, in order to receive benefits, the standard is, “you are not capable of any form of gainful employment.” Unlike Social Security Disability, you can work while receiving VA disability compensation. Your VA disability benefits is based on how your service-connected disabilities impact your ability to work.

Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) does not have a barrier to net worth or income provisions. Regardless of the home, the vehicle you own, or investments you’ve made – or alimony or pension from previous employment, this would not prohibit you from receiving SSDI. Similarly, this would not prohibit you from qualifying and receiving VA disability benefits. Even if you were to qualify for a 100% TDIU rating, you would still qualify for SSDI benefits either under the SSDI guidelines or the VA Disability guidelines.
The average length of time to adjudicate any claim or appeal depends on many factors, including the type of appeal or claim, the Regional Office, the number of disabilities to decide, any necessary development, and the overall complexity of the case. Cases in the VA’s legacy appeal system can take years. In contrast, the VA has set the following timeliness goal for adjudicating AMA appeals:
  • Supplemental Claims: within 125 days
  • Higher Level Review: within 125 days
  • Board of Veterans’ Appeals – Direct Review Docket: within 365 days
  • Board of Veterans’ Appeals – Evidence and Hearing Docket: over 365 days

No, the VA does not require you to hire a lawyer for your appeal. However, remember that the VA also unfairly denied your benefits. Statistics show that veterans with representation receive more benefits, faster. The Veterans Disability attorneys at Rob Levine Law know the law as well as the ins and outs of the VA system. When you combine an experienced, knowledgeable Veterans Disability attorney with a veteran who can assist by explaining the details of the facts of a case, there is no better team to help you get the disability benefits that you deserve.

Yes, if there are mitigating circumstances (like mental illness or TBI) that explain the conduct that resulted in the less-than-honorable discharge. These types of cases can often last years without an experienced representative who can overcome VA’s negative assessment of your military discharge. Learn more about the Character of Discharge Determination process here.

An effective attorney can put you in a position to win your appeal the first time around, saving you years of disappointment and frustration. Veterans’ claims often get caught in a cycle of denial, appeal, remand, denial, appeal, remand, denial, appeal, remand, and so on. An experienced attorney can effectively present the law and the facts to the VA the first time around, which in many instances gets veterans their disability benefits faster. When you choose our dedicated team of experts at Rob Levine & Associates to represent you, we take an all-hands-on-deck approach to win your case. As part of our proven process, our team will:

  • File your appeal with the VA;
  • Construct a personalized evidence development plan tailored to each claim;
  • Perform cutting-edge service record and medical research;
  • Draft a comprehensive legal brief in support of your appeal; and
  • Routinely follow up with you to provide an update on the status of your case.

You aren’t required to have an attorney to file for Veterans disability benefits, but having an experienced lawyer on your side can improve your chances of success and take considerable stress out of the process.

All military veterans who have developed a disabling illness or condition caused by or contributed to by their service are potentially eligible for VA disability benefits.

If you believe your VA disability rating is too low, you can contest the department’s decision by seeking a rating for a related secondary condition, filing a supplemental claim, requesting a higher-level review, or appealing to the Board of Veterans Appeals.

While many people associate VA disability claims with long, dramatic court hearings, the process isn’t always that way. At Rob Levine Law, we prioritize cutting through the VA’s bureaucracy to get you the benefits you deserve as quickly as possible, and we avoid hearings unless absolutely necessary.

Instead of relying on a hearing, we work with disability professionals to gather compelling evidence that can support your case and potentially replace live testimony. This approach ensures that we can craft a thorough and accurate narrative of your experience, which is often more effective than a hearing, where nerves or the pressure to speak may impact your ability to convey everything needed.

By choosing us, you can avoid unnecessary delays and increase your chances of receiving VA benefits as soon as possible. Let’s discuss your case in a free VA case evaluation to explore the best path forward.

The evidence required for a VA disability claim varies depending on the type of claim you’re filing. Here are the key requirements for different types of claims:
  • Service Connection Claim: If you’re trying to prove that your disability is related to your military service, you’ll need to show:
    • A current disability: You must have a diagnosed condition.
    • An in-service event: There must be evidence of an injury, diagnosis, disease, or stressor that occurred during your service.
    • A medical nexus: A connection between your current condition and your military service, typically supported by a medical professional’s opinion.
  • Increased Rating Claim: If you believe your service-connected disability should have a higher rating, you’ll need to provide:
    • Medical records: Documentation that demonstrates the worsening of your condition over time. It’s crucial to seek treatment regularly to build a paper trail that reflects the severity of your symptoms.
  • TDIU Claim (Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability): For this claim, the VA looks at various types of evidence to determine if your condition affects your ability to work. This can include:
    • Medical evidence: Documentation from healthcare providers about your condition.
    • Lay evidence: Personal statements from you describing how your disability impacts your ability to work.
    • Vocational evidence: Information about your work history and how your condition has impacted your ability to maintain employment.
At Rob Levine Law, we can help you gather and present the right evidence to strengthen your claim and improve your chances of success.
Yes, in certain situations, VA disability benefits can be passed on to your spouse, children, or other dependents. The eligibility for passing on these benefits typically depends on specific circumstances, such as:
  1. Veteran’s Death Due to Service-Connected Conditions: If a veteran passes away due to a service-connected disability, their spouse, minor children, or disabled children (who were identified by the Social Security Administration as disabled before the age of 18) may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits.
  2. Veteran Rated at 100% Disability for 10+ Years: If a veteran was rated at 100% disability for at least 10 years, their dependents may also qualify for DIC benefits after their passing.
DIC benefits provide monthly financial support to surviving loved ones of veterans. However, qualifying for DIC benefits can be complex, and it’s essential to have an accredited VA attorney or claims agent who can assist with your claim and help establish a plan for your family in the event of your passing. At Rob Levine Law, we’re here to guide you through this process and ensure your loved ones are taken care of.
The amount of VA disability compensation a veteran can receive varies based on several factors, including the combination of service-connected conditions and their respective ratings. Additionally, it depends on whether the conditions affect the veteran’s ability to work. As of 2025, the maximum compensation rate for a veteran rated at 100% disability is around $3,600 per month. However, in certain cases, veterans with particularly severe conditions, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or multiple service-connected conditions that make them housebound, may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). This can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to their monthly benefits. To ensure you’re receiving the maximum compensation you’re entitled to, it’s essential to work with a skilled VA attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of VA disability benefits and ensure that no potential benefits are overlooked. At Rob Levine Law, we have a proven track record of helping veterans secure the benefits they deserve.
Yes, you can file a VA disability claim while still on active duty. However, it’s important to note that you will not be able to receive both active duty compensation or drill pay and VA disability compensation at the same time. You can only receive one or the other. If you are filing a claim while in service, it’s essential to understand how your benefits may be impacted by your current pay status. At Rob Levine Law, we can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions about your benefits.

Fighting for Your VA Benefits in Every State

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Notable Case Results

$435,000

Awarded 100% for PTSD based on witnessing the death of a service member who drowned.

$540,000

Client served in the Army from 1964 to 1965 where they ran a squad. During his time he was severly injured and did not gain 100% disablity until hiring us and we were able to tie the back benefits to his time in service.

$410,000

100% benefits for Army National Guard veteran with over 13 years of backpay, PTSD and Erectile Dysfunction.

$750,000

100% benefits granted served in Air Force and was sexually assualted by a service psychologist during the entrance exam. Developed PTSD, anxiety, depression. Suffered for years from social isolation. Obtained benefits due back to 1982.

I highly recommend them and will continue to seek their services and advice.

Rob Levine Law have been very helpful in my request to receive Compensation Benefits for injuries I incurred while in service. I’ve suggested their services to a number of Veterans seeking legal services.

Sandyabdullah M.

I would recommend them to any Veteran needing assistance.

I am a Marine Vietnam Combat Veteran who was exposed to Agent Orange. This Law Firm has and is currently representing me knowledgeably, competently, and professionally.

Rick C.

Thank you, everyone, for the continued support!

As a military veteran, I have pursued a disability claim on my own and with multiple NSOs. While my disability was +50%, it was obvious to me a law firm was necessary to help navigate the appeal process and all the details involved with it. I was astounded at how knowledgeable the firm was about […]

Meghann G.

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