Agent Orange is one of the most well-known and dangerous chemical herbicides used during the Vietnam War. It has left a lasting impact on many veterans who were exposed to it during their service. At Glover Luck LLP, we are committed to helping veterans who have suffered due to this exposure, working to achieve the compensation and support they deserve. Our team serves veterans in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and nationwide, providing dedicated legal representation for those affected by Agent Orange.
Overview of Agent Orange Exposure
Agent Orange was used extensively during the Vietnam War to clear dense forests and vegetation. Unfortunately, the chemical contained dioxin, a toxic substance linked to various severe health issues. Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange may experience conditions such as certain cancers, diabetes, and heart disease, among others. The VA recognizes several diseases as presumptively connected to Agent Orange exposure, meaning that veterans diagnosed with these conditions are presumed to have developed them due to their exposure during service.
However, getting the VA to acknowledge and compensate for these conditions can be a complex process. Veterans often need to provide detailed medical evidence and service records to prove their exposure and the resulting health conditions. This is where the experience of an agent orange exposure lawyer can be invaluable.
Filing a Claim for Agent Orange Exposure
Filing a claim for disability benefits related to Agent Orange exposure requires a clear demonstration that your health condition is linked to your military service. The VA has specific criteria for what qualifies as exposure, which generally includes service in Vietnam, along the Korean DMZ, or in certain other locations during specific periods. Veterans who meet these criteria and are diagnosed with a recognized condition can file a claim for disability compensation.
Our team at Glover Luck LLP understands the unique challenges veterans face when filing these claims. We work closely with our clients to gather the necessary evidence, such as medical records and service documents, to support their claims. As experienced agent orange exposure lawyers, we know how to effectively present your case to the VA to maximize the chances of a successful outcome.
Appeals for Denied Agent Orange Claims
Unfortunately, not all claims related to Agent Orange exposure are approved on the first attempt. Many veterans receive denials or ratings that do not accurately reflect the severity of their conditions. If your claim has been denied, or if you believe your rating is too low, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Appealing a VA decision can be a daunting task, but it’s important not to give up. At Glover Luck LLP, we have a strong track record of assisting veterans in appealing denied claims and securing the benefits they deserve. We will review your case, identify any areas where additional evidence or argumentation is needed, and work tirelessly so that your appeal is as strong as possible.
How We Can Help
At Glover Luck LLP, we are dedicated to helping veterans who have been affected by Agent Orange exposure. Our attorneys, Julie Glover and Adam Luck, bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to serving those who served our country. Julie’s extensive legal background, combined with Adam’s experience working with veterans, makes our firm uniquely qualified to handle these complex cases.
We understand that dealing with the VA can be frustrating and overwhelming. That’s why we take pride in offering personalized, attentive legal services that focus on achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. As your agent orange exposure lawyer, we will stand by your side throughout the entire process, from filing the initial claim to handling any necessary appeals.
Contact Glover Luck LLP Today
If you or a loved one has been affected by Agent Orange exposure, don’t hesitate to reach out to Glover Luck LLP. Our team is here to help you understand the VA claims process so that you receive the benefits you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you. We are committed to fighting for the rights of veterans in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and across the nation.
Supporting An Agent Orange Exposure Claim
Veterans exposed to Agent Orange during their military service may face long-term health conditions directly linked to that exposure. Filing a claim for benefits requires presenting strong evidence to support the connection between the veteran’s service, exposure, and their health condition. A Texas agent orange exposure lawyer can be of assistance from our firm. Below, we outline key questions and answers to help clarify what evidence is needed to support an Agent Orange exposure claim.
What Military Records Are Necessary To Establish Exposure?
Military records play a critical role in Agent Orange exposure claims. These records should demonstrate the veteran’s location and timeframe of service. For instance, veterans who served in Vietnam between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975, are presumed to have been exposed. Service records, unit histories, and orders showing deployment to affected areas are essential pieces of evidence for establishing eligibility under the presumption of exposure.
What Type Of Medical Documentation Is Required?
Medical documentation must show a clear diagnosis of a condition linked to Agent Orange exposure. This includes medical records from VA or private physicians detailing the condition, treatment, and its severity. Conditions such as certain cancers, Type 2 diabetes, and ischemic heart disease are among those recognized by the VA as related to Agent Orange exposure. Comprehensive medical records help build a strong connection between the health condition and military service.
Can Lay Statements Support A Claim?
Lay statements from the veteran, fellow service members, or family can provide additional context about the exposure and its impact. These statements are especially useful when service records are incomplete or do not explicitly document the exposure. A detailed account of experiences in areas where Agent Orange was used, combined with statements from those who served in similar conditions, can reinforce the claim. Your Texas agent orange exposure lawyer will assist with reviewing these statements.
How Does Proof Of Location Strengthen The Claim?
Demonstrating that the veteran was in a specific location known for Agent Orange exposure is vital. Maps, photographs, and records of duties performed in those areas can serve as supplementary evidence. Veterans who served near bases or airfields where Agent Orange was stored, transported, or sprayed may need additional proof to support their claims if their service location falls outside the presumptive exposure zones.
What Additional Evidence May Help In Denied Claims?
For claims that are initially denied, obtaining an independent medical opinion can provide valuable support. A medical professional’s statement linking the diagnosed condition to Agent Orange exposure, even when the condition is not on the presumptive list, can bolster the claim. Scientific studies and research demonstrating a connection between Agent Orange and the health condition may also provide useful context.
At Glover Luck LLP, we understand the importance of presenting strong, well-organized evidence in Agent Orange exposure claims. As a trusted Texas agent orange exposure lawyer team, we’re committed to helping veterans and their families secure the benefits they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist with your claim and help you move forward with confidence.
If you need assistance appealing your service-connected disability claim, please contact our veterans law office for a free consultation at 866-849-3287 or 214-741-2005. We are based in Dallas, Texas, and represent veterans all over the United States.