Beyond the BVA
What are my options if I want to appeal a BVA Decision?
A BVA decision may be appealed to the US Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC).
You can also ask that the BVA reconsider its decision.
There is a deadline to file either appeal.
The CAVC standard of review is very strict. CAVC may uphold the BVA decision, or it may remand the decision to the Veterans Law Judge at the BVA for a futher determination. CAVC will rarely reverse a BVA decision outright.
If the case is returned to the BVA, the Veterans Law Judge will issue a new decision that may again deny the claim, or it may award part or all of the claim.
Any subsequent BVA decision will likely involve more processing by the local VA regional office.
Attorneys may charge a fee to represent veterans at CAVC.
What are my options if I want to appeal a CAVC Decision?
Some CAVC decision may be appealed to the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
This is a very long and expensive action.