Where to start If you believe there are errors on your personal record, these are the first few steps you should take: Contact a lawyer: Talking with an attorney experienced in military record protection can be a tremendous asset. He or she can walk you through each step to help assure successful resolution to the problem. Explore alternative options: It…
How to appeal A clean military record can get you places in life. Likewise, a record with negative marks for your character, misconduct, a break in your service time or other reasons may affect your chances of fulfilling your goals or taking advantage of many opportunities in life. You may also miss out on important government and VA benefits. However,…
The presumption of regularity Challenging an OER without experienced legal help can be tricky. That’s largely due to a principle that civilian courts and the military justice system follow, called the “presumption of regularity.” In this case, it means that those doing evaluations are presumed to be consistently and lawfully executing their duties. You must overcome that assumption. You have…
Your paths The news report discusses these possibilities for correcting your service record: Inaccuracy: This is the traditional, most common appeal for a military records correction. It is based on simple inaccuracy. The records show that you were given a less than honorable discharge, but the information is wrong. Mental health situations: This is a relatively newer option. As reported…
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its effects Today, PTSD is perhaps the most well-known mental health condition that affects soldiers. The VA is learning more about PTSD all the time and knows that the mental trauma soldiers go through in active duty can come home with them. Left untreated or undiagnosed, PTSD can lead someone to uncharacteristic behavior and even…