Business Details
35 Years
experience
Veterans Disability Claims and Appeals Attorneys in South Portland, ME
Jackson & Macnichol is a dedicated legal practice specializing in veterans disability claims and appeals. Since 1991, we have focused exclusively on helping veterans secure the benefits they earned through their service. Our team of attorneys brings decades of combined experience in navigating the complexities of VA regulations and procedures. We prioritize personalized service, treating every client with the respect and compassion they deserve. Our firm operates on core values of integrity, empathy, and excellence, ensuring every case receives meticulous attention. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning no legal fees unless we win.With offices in South Portland, Maine, we represent veterans nationwide in claims related to physical injuries, mental health conditions, and service-connected disabilities. Our attorneys have handled over 5,000 cases, securing millions in awarded benefits. We provide guidance through every stage of the VA process, from initial applications to appeals and disability rating disputes. Our commitment to veterans extends beyond legal representation, as we strive to be a trusted partner in rebuilding their lives.
Services
VA Disability Claims
Appeals Representation
TDIU Applications
Agent Orange Exposure
Mental Health Conditions
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have handled over 5,000 veterans disability cases nationwide since 1991
- Our attorneys focus exclusively on VA disability law and appeals
- We work on contingency - no fees unless we win your case
- We provide free initial consultations with no hidden costs
- Our team includes founding members of the National Organization of Veterans Advocates
Associations and certifications
- National Association of Veterans Advocates (NOVA)
What people say
Increased rating to 100%
Professional and diligent
Made process easy
Strong legal knowledge
Compassionate representation
Services
VA Disability Claims
We assist veterans in filing initial claims for service-connected disabilities, including physical injuries, mental health conditions, and chronic illnesses. Our attorneys gather medical evidence, prepare documentation, and ensure compliance with VA requirements. With specialized knowledge of VA regulations, we maximize approval chances for conditions like PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and Agent Orange-related illnesses.
Appeals Representation
For denied claims, we provide comprehensive appeal services before regional offices and the Board of Veterans Appeals. Our team prepares legal arguments, submits additional evidence, and represents clients in hearings. We specialize in identifying procedural errors and building strong cases to overturn unfavorable decisions through the appeals process.
TDIU Applications
We help veterans with service-connected disabilities apply for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU). This benefit provides compensation at the 100% rating level for veterans unable to maintain gainful employment due to service-connected conditions. Our attorneys demonstrate how disabilities prevent sustained employment through medical and vocational evidence.
Agent Orange Exposure
We represent veterans exposed to Agent Orange during service in Vietnam, Korea, or other designated areas. Our team documents exposure history and connects related conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancers to service. We leverage presumptive service connection rules to expedite claims for Agent Orange-related illnesses.
Mental Health Conditions
We specialize in claims for service-connected mental health conditions including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Our attorneys work with medical professionals to establish nexus between military service and psychological conditions. We address unique challenges in proving non-visible disabilities through comprehensive evaluation reports and treatment records.
People
Francis M. Jackson
Founding Partner
Francis Jackson co-founded NOVA in 1993 and has handled hundreds of VA appeals at the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. With over 30 years of veterans law experience, he focuses on complex disability cases and mentorship within the firm.
Kristian T.F. Terison
Attorney
Kristian Terison represents veterans in disability claims and appeals, leveraging his legal expertise to navigate VA procedures. He specializes in connecting service records to current medical conditions while maintaining client-focused communication throughout the process.
Jordan Zoretic
Attorney
Jordan Zoretic focuses on veterans' benefits litigation, with experience in drafting legal briefs and presenting cases before VA boards. He emphasizes thorough case preparation and evidence analysis to support clients' claims for service-connected disabilities.
Devin Sorkin
Attorney
Devin Sorkin assists veterans with disability claims and appeals, concentrating on procedural compliance and evidence submission. He works to ensure clients meet all VA requirements while advocating for their rights throughout the benefits process.
Alice M. Link
Attorney
Alice Link represents veterans in disability claims, focusing on mental health conditions and service connection. She combines legal knowledge with compassionate client support to navigate the complexities of VA benefit applications.
Questions
What VA disability benefits can I claim?
We help veterans claim benefits for physical injuries, mental health conditions, Agent Orange exposure, Gulf War illnesses, and other service-connected disabilities through the VA's compensation program.
How do I appeal a VA disability denial?
Our attorneys guide you through VA appeals options including Higher Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board of Veterans Appeals submission with evidence and legal arguments to overturn denials.
What qualifies as a service-connected disability?
A service-connected disability requires medical evidence showing your current condition resulted from events, injuries, or illnesses during active military service, with proper documentation.
How much does a VA disability lawyer cost?
We work on contingency - no legal fees unless we win your case. Our fee is 20% of retroactive benefits awarded, as regulated by VA guidelines.
Can I get benefits for PTSD or mental health issues?
Yes, we specialize in mental health claims including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. We help veterans document service connection and secure appropriate disability ratings.
How long does the VA disability process take?
Initial claims typically take 3-6 months. Appeals may require 1-2 years depending on complexity and VA processing times, though we work to expedite cases where possible.
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