Business Details
Trusted VA Disability Benefits Lawyers in San Francisco
Unruh Law is a dedicated VA disability benefits law firm serving veterans across the United States. With over 47 years of combined experience, our team specializes in navigating the complexities of VA disability claims, appeals, and administrative proceedings. We provide personalized legal representation to help veterans secure the full benefits they deserve, including retroactive awards and total disability individual unemployability (TDIU) claims. Our attorneys are well-versed in challenging VA denials and have a proven track record of success in hearings and appeals. We offer a free initial consultation with no fees unless we win your case.Our commitment to veterans is rooted in deep expertise, compassionate advocacy, and a thorough understanding of the VA process. We pride ourselves on transparent communication, client education, and relentless pursuit of maximum benefits. Our team includes seasoned attorneys and claims managers who guide clients through every step, from case review to final resolution. With offices in San Francisco, we serve veterans nationwide, ensuring accessible support regardless of location. Our testimonials highlight client satisfaction with our professional, responsive, and results-driven approach.
Services
VA Disability Appeals
TDIU Claims
VA Disability Ratings
Retroactive Benefits
Hearing Representation
Highlights and features
- We have over 47 years of combined experience in VA disability law
- No fees unless we win your case
- We specialize in complex VA appeals and denied claims
- Our team includes certified legal professionals with veteran advocacy expertise
- Proven track record of securing retroactive awards exceeding $900,000
What people say
Exceptional service
Highly recommend
Relentlessly appealed denials
Stress-free process
Achieved 100% disability rating
Services
VA Disability Appeals
Our team specializes in challenging VA disability claim denials through formal appeals. We conduct thorough case reviews, prepare compelling evidence packages, and represent veterans at hearings. With deep understanding of VA regulations, we identify procedural errors and build strong arguments to overturn unfavorable decisions. Our success in appeals stems from decades of focused experience and strategic advocacy.
TDIU Claims
We help veterans qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) compensation. Our attorneys assess medical and employment history to demonstrate inability to maintain gainful employment. We prepare comprehensive documentation showing service-connected disabilities prevent work capability. This specialized claim allows veterans to receive 100% disability compensation without meeting standard schedular requirements.
Retroactive Benefits
We pursue retroactive VA disability payments dating back to original claim submission dates. By identifying delayed decisions and procedural delays, we maximize back pay awards. Our team has secured retroactive payments exceeding $940,000 for clients through meticulous case documentation and timeline analysis. We ensure veterans receive all benefits owed from effective dates of claim.
Hearing Representation
Our attorneys provide expert representation during VA disability hearings. We prepare clients through mock sessions, develop persuasive oral arguments, and present medical evidence effectively. We handle both virtual and in-person hearings before VA decision-makers, ensuring veterans' voices are heard and documented experiences receive proper consideration in final determinations.
Initial Claims Assistance
We guide veterans through initial VA disability claim submissions. Our team ensures complete documentation packages, accurate disability ratings, and proper evidence submission. We help gather service records, medical documentation, and nexus letters to establish service connection. Our expertise prevents common filing errors that cause delays or denials in the claims process.
People
John Unruh
Attorney
With over 47 years of experience, John Unruh specializes in VA disability law. He has successfully represented numerous veterans in appeals and hearings, focusing on complex cases involving Agent Orange exposure and traumatic brain injuries. His approach combines legal expertise with personal advocacy.
Judy Donegan
ESQ
Judy Donegan brings extensive legal experience to veteran disability claims. She focuses on case strategy development and evidence presentation, ensuring clients receive comprehensive representation throughout the VA process. Her background includes handling complex administrative proceedings.
Mikayla Mckenna
Claims Manager
Mikayla Mckenna oversees case management for disability claims. She maintains client communication, tracks case progress, and coordinates evidence submission. Her organizational skills ensure efficient processing of appeals and timely responses to VA inquiries.
Nick Asprodites
Legal Assistant
Nick Asprodites supports case preparation by organizing documentation and conducting initial claim assessments. He assists in maintaining case files and ensuring compliance with filing deadlines, contributing to the team's overall efficiency.
Nonhlanhla Ravhudzulo
Paralegal
Nonhlanhla Ravhudzulo provides critical case support through research and document preparation. She helps translate complex VA requirements into actionable steps for clients, ensuring clear communication throughout the legal process.
Questions
What VA disability benefits can veterans claim?
Veterans can claim compensation for service-connected disabilities including physical injuries, mental health conditions, and illnesses from military service. This includes TDIU benefits for unemployability and retroactive payments for delayed decisions.
How does the VA appeals process work?
Our team files Notice of Disagreement, submits additional evidence, and represents clients at hearings. We identify procedural errors in VA decisions and build stronger cases to overturn denials through the formal appeals process.
What are TDIU benefits?
TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability) allows veterans to receive 100% disability compensation when service-connected conditions prevent work, even if their combined rating doesn't meet standard requirements. We help prove work incapacity through medical documentation.
How much does VA disability representation cost?
We work on contingency - no fees unless we win your case. If successful, compensation comes from retroactive payments awarded, with no upfront costs required from veterans seeking our legal services.
How long do VA disability cases take?
Case timelines vary but typically take 8 months to 2 years. We expedite processes through proactive follow-ups while ensuring thorough preparation. Retroactive awards depend on original claim submission dates and VA processing delays.
Can I appeal a VA disability rating?
Yes, veterans can appeal ratings within one year of decision. We help challenge ratings by submitting new evidence, requesting re-examinations, and presenting arguments to demonstrate higher disability impact through the formal appeals process.