Veterans Law Practicum
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. Visitors attend the Veterans Day observance at Arlington National Cemetery’s Memorial Amphitheater in Arlington, Va. Credit: Elizabeth Fraser, Army.
The Veterans Law Practicum is dedicated to serving our most vulnerable veterans and their families. Our work centers on critical VA benefits that support aging, disabled, and financially insecure veterans—including VA pension, survivor’s pension, survivor’s benefits, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) claims, and Character of Discharge determinations for VA purposes.
Through direct client representation and advocacy, the practicum empowers veterans and their survivors to access needed benefits. At the same time, it provides law students with hands-on experience in veterans law, cultivating a new generation of attorneys committed to serving those who have served our country.
David E. Coombs
Director of Veterans Law Practicum; Lecturer in Law
Organization Collaborations
Our success hinges on strong partnerships with established veteran service organizations. Through these collaborations, we create a coordinated network of expertise, resources, and referrals to effectively address veterans’ needs.
- Erie County Veterans Service Agency
The Erie County Veterans Service Agency (ECVSA) is dedicated to assisting veterans and their families in obtaining the benefits they are entitled to through federal, state, and local programs. They offer expert guidance on VA benefits, healthcare, and other essential services, helping to improve the quality of life for the veteran community in Erie County. - Veterans One-stop Center of Western New York
Veterans One-stop Center (VOC) provides a comprehensive range of services under one roof, offering veterans and their families support with housing, legal issues, healthcare, and employment. By connecting veterans to community resources, the organization serves as a vital hub for veteran reintegration and empowerment in Western New York. - Western New York Heroes
Western New York Heroes is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance, peer support, and resources to veterans, service members, and their families. Their focus is on fostering a sense of community and ensuring veterans receive the support they need for their well-being, both physically and mentally. - Veterans Treatment Court of Buffalo
The Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) in Buffalo is a specialized court designed to help veterans involved in the criminal justice system. It provides treatment, support, and rehabilitation services instead of traditional punitive measures, aiming to address the underlying issues veterans may face, such as mental health struggles and substance abuse, and to reintegrate them into society. - Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo
The Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo (LABB) offers free legal services to low-income individuals, including veterans. Through our collaboration, we aim to enhance the legal support available to veterans, particularly in areas such as VA benefits claims, discharge upgrades, and disability claims, ensuring they receive the advocacy and assistance they deserve.