Equal Justice America's Veterans Rights Fellowship and Legal Aid of NC are a dream come true.  As a veteran—I was a security police officer in the U.S. Air Force from 1994 until 1997—I went to law school motivated to help veterans. I am excited to join Legal Aid with this fellowship to expand the reach of their Veterans Law Program and provide critically needed legal services to veterans.

I was recently asked what I wanted to do when I was younger. I could not answer; my identity had been as an Air Force wife and a mom. I know I was frustrated with the way the world was turning, the hatred, the violence and the lack of resources for veterans in particular.  Then, I remembered a 30-year-old dream of being a lawyer and wondered if that might be the way.

With full support from my family, I took the LSAT and applied to law school. North Carolina Central University School of Law is known for its high standards and diversity. It also has a very active clinical program, which includes a Veterans Clinic. What better place for a non-traditional student with a narrow focus on the areas of law (Veterans Law and Appellate Advocacy) they want to practice?

During my second year, I took the Veterans Benefits Law class, a requirement before working in the Veterans Clinic. I was shocked that not everyone who had signed on that line and served was considered a veteran. I understood there were consequences for dishonorable discharges from my time in the Air Force.

We send our troops to war, where the stresses cause them to find relief in drugs and alcohol. When those stresses result in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental health conditions, the veteran’s behavior begins to contradict the good order and discipline military units need. These behaviors include disobeying a lawful order, fighting, or even drug charges. Commanders must implement disciplinary processes that can ruin careers and future benefits to maintain that discipline. 

Having an attorney who understands the VA’s benefits system, discharge upgrades, and the procedures required, from the start through appeals, could mean the difference in a veteran receiving or being denied those benefits.  I cannot thank EJA and Legal Aid of NC enough for providing the opportunity to help veterans receive the benefits they need and deserve.