NewsIrell Attorneys Help a Homeless Veteran Obtain Benefits
Mary, a homeless veteran, went to Inner City Law Center's clinic for female veterans seeking assistance with her VA benefits claim. A survivor of military sexual trauma, Mary's Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms were greatly impacting her life and affecting her ability to do even the smallest of tasks. Despite clear evidence of the sexual assault Mary experienced in the military, including a pregnancy and medical treatment records, the VA denied her claim. Irell & Manella worked closely with Mary on a pro bono basis to successfully appeal the denial of benefits, obtaining $49,000 in retroactive benefits and over $2,700 in monthly benefits going forward. These benefits allowed Mary to obtain stable housing and continue with her medical treatment. Mary said of Irell "I just know that having a law firm in my corner was what did it."