VETERANS
Veteran Legal Aid & Discharge Upgrades
Help with discharge upgrades, denied VA claims, and other legal issues that need more than a VSO can offer.
LEGAL SUPPORT
Overview
A VSO can walk you through most VA claims — but a discharge upgrade, a formal appeal, or a records correction usually needs an attorney who specializes specifically in military law. This page points you to the right kind of help, separate from the general legal aid already in our Community Resources directory.
Your application journey
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Understand which board you need
A Discharge Review Board handles requests made within 15 years of discharge. The Board for Correction of Military/Naval Records has no time limit but a higher bar — knowing which one applies saves you months.
Find a VA-accredited attorney or claims agent
This is different from a VSO — you'll need one specifically once a claim moves into a formal appeal. The VA maintains a searchable directory.
Look into free and low-cost options first
The Texas Veterans Commission's Pro Bono Program and Texas RioGrande Legal Aid both offer veteran-focused legal help at no cost to those who qualify.
Know about Williamson County's Veterans Treatment Court
Already listed in our Agencies directory — it's worth understanding as a legal resource in its own right, not just a court listing.
What to gather
Helpful links
For general legal help not specific to military service, see the Legal Aid entries in our Community Resources directory.