Veterans and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Representing Veterans with PTSD

This program provides an overview of the fundamental principles governing service connection for VA disability benefits, with a particular focus on claims involving Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The course explains the essential elements required to establish service connection for PTSD, highlighting key distinctions from other types of VA disability claims-such as the evidentiary considerations surrounding a veteran's "fear of hostile military or terrorist activity."

Participants will also review and analyze significant precedential decisions from the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and the Federal Circuit, as well as a recently enacted federal statute that impacts PTSD claims. Together, these materials offer valuable insight into both the legal framework and the practical application of PTSD-related VA disability law.

Learning Objectives:

1. Provide to attendees the basic requirements to establish service connection for VA Disability Compensation Benefits
2. Distinguish the service connection requirements that are unique to PTSD service connection and Ratings
3. Provide attendees with methods of representation at the Agency level, i.e., VA Regional Offices, and appeals to the federal courts.
4. Discuss recent PTSD legislation and non-disability PTSD issues