The Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Board) has launched a new virtual hearing option, providing Veterans with the flexibility, convenience, and access of attending Board hearings with Veterans Law Judges (VLJs) and Veteran representatives from a personal computer or mobile device.
Through the Tele-hearing Modernization Act, signed by President Trump on April 10, 2020, Veterans now have the choice of location for their hearing. For example, the Veteran can be in his or her home with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) in a separate location, or both the Veteran and the representative can be together. Veterans can also have those around them, such as family members or caregivers, assist them in this user-friendly process. Hearings can take place on an iPad/computer or cell phone. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and your legal team at Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, can work with you to make sure participants feel comfortable in their Board hearing.
“This is a major step forward on the Board’s part in settling legacy appeals,” states John Dorrity, Veteran Representative. “Both judges did an outstanding job, not to mention your schedulers, IT guys and tech support. This method of truly expediting the appeal process is the first real step that I have seen VA take in regard to dealing with a somewhat overburdened system.”
During the virtual hearing, the VLJ will swear the Veteran in, asking that he or she take an oath to tell the truth during the hearing. During this time the VLJ will want to hear testimony about the claims being decided. The assistance of a skilled representative could be beneficial during to help ensure that the Veteran’s claims is properly addressed and perhaps the Veteran’s best hope for a successful outcome.
It is recommended virtual hearing users use a personal computer or laptop with a secure Wi-Fi or ethernet connection in a private setting (likely an office or home). Users may use an Android or Apple mobile device in a private setting, with a secure and reliable Wi-Fi connection or cellular service.
The preferred browser, and the one that works best for personal computers, laptops and Android devices, is Google Chrome. If access to Google Chrome is not available, Internet Explorer is a comparable alternative browser.
Apple devices require the VA Video Connect application (app). Learn more about VA Video Connect on the VA mobile website. All devices must have a camera and microphone for video/audio capabilities.
Android devices require no application as the session will launch automatically in a web browser after the session link is selected from the email invitation. The Board hearing team members are available to support and assist.
Following the virtual hearing just like other Board hearings, Veterans and their representatives may request a transcript of the hearing. There will be no video recording.
For more information, visit the Board’s website at bva.va.gov. Additional virtual hearing information and resources will be available on the Board’s website. Of course, you can always contact our experienced and knowledgeable team members at Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law. You can also fill out this form and we will respond to you shortly. We fight for Vets!
