Last month, the United States observed Veterans Day, which celebrates military veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and honors their contributions to our country. But these contributions should be celebrated year-round.
An estimated 459,569 veterans live in Illinois representing 4.7% of the state’s population. Veterans face many of the same civil legal issues as the general population but also experience unique challenges related to their service. Unfortunately, veterans do not always receive the legal assistance they need.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, in 2021 76% of low-income veteran households reported a civil legal problem and low-income veteran households did not receive any or enough legal help for 84% of their substantial civil legal problems.
The Veterans’ Legal Aid Society (VLAS), founded in 2010, assists veterans and their families in seeking aid and attendance benefits and provides income-based legal aid services to veterans of limited means.
We spoke with VLAS President Amy Delaney about its work and why attorneys should consider specializing in veterans’ affairs.
What are the biggest legal challenges facing the veteran community?
Veterans often face legal challenges in areas such as accessing earned benefits, securing affordable housing, navigating healthcare systems, resolving family law issues, addressing criminal justice matters, and managing debt or financial disputes.
Many veterans encounter barriers when dealing with complex government processes or understanding their rights under federal and state laws. These challenges are compounded by mental health issues, lack of resources, or difficulty transitioning to civilian life.
How does the Veterans’ Legal Aid Society support veterans?
The VLAS provides free or low-cost legal assistance to veterans and their families. We focus on areas such as VA benefits claims, discharge upgrades, housing advocacy, employment rights, and family law matters.
Our team collaborates with legal professionals, community organizations, and veterans’ advocates to ensure veterans receive the support they deserve. Through education, representation, and systemic advocacy, VLAS empowers veterans to navigate legal challenges and reclaim stability in their lives.
Why should attorneys consider specializing in veterans’ affairs?
Concentrating a legal practice in veterans’ affairs allows attorneys to serve a community that has given so much to our nation.
Veterans often require legal assistance in specialized areas like military benefits, VA claims, and discharge upgrades, which are not always straightforward. Attorneys who understand these systems can make a profound difference in veterans’ lives, helping them secure critical resources and recognition.
Additionally, working with veterans provides a sense of purpose and the opportunity to address systemic issues affecting a deserving population.
How can attorneys get involved or support your organization?
Attorneys can get involved by volunteering their time to provide pro bono legal services, offering mentorship to other attorneys in veterans’ law, or donating to support our programs.
We also encourage attorneys to participate in our training sessions to build their expertise in veterans’ legal issues.
Additionally, attorneys can advocate for policy changes that benefit veterans and amplify the challenges they face to a broader audience.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
The work we do at the Veterans’ Legal Aid Society is deeply impactful, not just for veterans but for their families and communities.
Veterans have unique legal needs that require compassionate and knowledgeable advocacy. By supporting organizations like VLAS, we honor their service and help them build stable and fulfilling post-service lives. We encourage everyone — legal professionals and community members alike — to join us in making a difference.
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