Military Sexual Trauma: PSTD, Sexual Dysfunction, and more | Lawyer

The VA reports that 1 out of 5 five female veterans and 1 out of every 100 male veterans respond affirmatively when asked if they were subjected to MST. The damage left by MST can range from physical injuries, such as sexual dysfunction, to mental trauma, such as PTSD. Disability compensation appeals involving MST can be difficult to prove because MST more often than not goes unreported.

PTSD RESULTING FROM MST OR OTHER PERSONAL ASSAULT

Recognizing that sexual and personal assaults usually go unreported, the VA now permits alternative evidence to prove a PTSD stressor based on a sexual or personal assault. Examples of such evidence includes, but is not limited to:

• Police records, rape crisis centers records, mental health counseling centers records
• Statements from family members, roommates, fellow service members, or clergy
• Rrequest for assignment transfer
• Deterioration in work performance
• Substance abuse
• Diagnosis of a mental disorder without an identifiable cause
• Unexplained economic or social behavior changes

HOW I CAN HELP

Claims involving MST or personal assault add a layer of difficulty to the process. The veteran is forced to discuss and relive the traumatic experience over and over, so I focus on getting your claim granted as quickly as possible with minimal effort on your part.

MY FEE

I work on a contingency fee basis which means you pay no up-front fees for my representation. You only pay my fee if I successfully resolve your appeal. My fee is a reasonable percentage of your backpay award, and does not impact your future benefits.

In addition, I advance all costs of your appeal including the cost of obtaining independent medical examinations (when appropriate). You are only responsible for repayment of expenses upon successful resolution of your appeal, or if you terminate my representation before final conclusion of your appeal.

WHY ME

I handle every aspect of your case from initial intake to resolution, and as a disabled veteran myself, I understand what you are going through. I don’t use support staff, so you are always dealing with me and I pride myself on responding to my clients in a timely manner.

FAQs on How a Lawyer Can Help with Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Cases

Your military sexual trauma (MST) lawyer knows that military sexual trauma is a grave issue affecting veterans and active-duty service members. Victims of MST often face emotional, physical, and psychological challenges. Legal representation can be crucial for those seeking justice and compensation. For help, reach out to Greg at Gregory M. Rada, Attorney at Law when you need a case evaluation.

What is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?

MST refers to sexual harassment or assault experienced by military service members during their time in the armed forces. It can occur both in the United States and overseas. MST can have severe and lasting effects on the victim’s mental and emotional well-being.

How can a lawyer assist with MST cases?

Lawyers specializing in MST cases can provide several essential services:

• Legal Guidance: They can educate survivors on their rights and options, ensuring they understand the legal process and potential outcomes.
• Evidence Gathering: Lawyers can help collect evidence, such as medical records, counseling reports, and witness statements, to support the survivor’s case.
• Filing VA Claims: MST survivors can file claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for disability compensation and healthcare related to MST. A lawyer can assist with the application process.
• Appeals: If a survivor’s claim is denied, attorneys can assist with the appeals process, including gathering additional evidence and representing the survivor’s case before the VA.

Can a lawyer help MST survivors obtain VA benefits?

Yes, lawyers can play a vital role in helping MST survivors secure VA benefits. The VA recognizes MST as a valid basis for service-connected disability compensation. Lawyers can assist survivors in documenting their MST-related disabilities, which may include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

What if the MST survivor wants to pursue a legal case against the perpetrator?

Pursuing legal action against the perpetrator of MST within the military justice system can be challenging. Lawyers experienced in MST cases can help survivors explore their options. A military sexual trauma (MST) lawyer can provide guidance on reporting the incident through the military’s chain of command and navigating the court-martial process.

Survivors may also choose to pursue civil legal action outside the military justice system. In such cases, lawyers can help with filing lawsuits against the perpetrator in civil court.

How can a lawyer support MST survivors emotionally and legally?

Lawyers handling MST cases understand the unique emotional challenges survivors face. They can provide emotional support by creating a safe and empathetic environment, actively listening to survivors’ stories, and offering guidance on accessing mental health services.

Legally, attorneys can ensure that survivors receive fair compensation and support from the VA or, if applicable, through legal action against the perpetrator. They can also help protect survivors from retaliation and ensure their rights are upheld throughout the legal process.

Find Legal Help Now

Lawyers play a crucial role in assisting MST survivors in seeking justice, compensation, and emotional support. They can guide survivors through the complex legal processes involved in filing VA claims, pursuing legal action against perpetrators, and appealing denied claims. MST survivors should consider seeking legal representation from a military sexual trauma (MST) lawyer to ensure their rights are protected and their voices are heard, so you should reach out to Greg at Gregory M. Rada, Attorney at Law for help.