Has the VA denied or underrated you? Our law firm focuses exclusively on VA disability law, and we’ve built a national reputation for success. In fact, we have a 96% success rate on the appeals we choose to take. That’s because we don’t just file paperwork – we build powerful, evidence-based appeals that get results.
Whether you’re trying to prove a service connection, pursuing a rating increase or seeking special monthly compensation, our team knows exactly how to navigate the VA’s complex system. We’ve helped thousands of disabled veterans nationwide, including many here in the Raleigh area, secure the benefits they deserve.
At Hill & Ponton, there are no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win your case. Tell us about your claim and let us put our experience to work for you.
Our Legal Services for Veterans In the Raleigh Area
- Disability Compensation: We help maximize monthly payments for veterans who have a physical or mental condition caused or worsened by an injury, illness, or event that occurred during active military service.
- Appeals: If your VA disability claim has been denied, our legal team is here to handle the appeals process from start to finish. We focus on reversing wrongful denials and securing the full compensation you’re owed (including any back pay).
- Increased Compensation: If your service-connected condition has worsened, you may be entitled to a higher disability rating and larger monthly payments.
- Survivor Benefits: We provide legal support to surviving spouses, children, and parents of veterans who died as a result of service-connected conditions, helping them access the benefits they deserve.
- Special Monthly Compensation: Veterans facing severe or unique circumstances (such as the loss of use of a limb, blindness, or the need for personal assistance) may qualify for SMC. Our attorneys can help you obtain this additional, tax-free benefit.
- Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability: If your service-connected disabilities make it impossible to hold steady, gainful employment, you could qualify for TDIU. This benefit pays at the 100% disability rate, even if your combined rating is lower. We’ll help you build a strong case to prove your eligibility.
What Does It Take To Win Your VA Disability Claim?
The VA looks for three key elements: a current diagnosis, an in-service incident or illness, and a medical nexus linking the two.
Denials often happen because the VA finds no clear service connection, meaning the evidence doesn’t convincingly tie the condition to military service. Other frequent reasons include inadequate medical documentation, VA errors or procedural issues, such as missed filing deadlines or failure to submit supporting forms.
At Hill & Ponton, we understand how frustrating and complex this process can be. Our VA-accredited attorneys specialize in identifying the weak points in denied claims, gathering comprehensive medical records, obtaining strong nexus statements, and ensuring all documentation is submitted properly and on time. If your claim has been denied or underrated, we’re here to build a solid case and fight for the compensation you’ve earned through your service.
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Proving Toxic Exposure Claims
During their military service, many veterans face exposure to harmful chemicals and environmental hazards that can lead to serious long-term health problems. Multiple military bases in North Carolina, including some of the nation’s most active facilities, have been linked to toxic exposure risks:
- Seymour Johnson Air Force Base (Goldsboro, NC) – As recently as 2023, sampling detected PFOA, PFOS, and several other PFAS above Minimum Reporting Levels. Investigations and legal actions are underway for people stationed at or living near Seymour Johnson who may have been exposed. If you were affected by the PFAS contamination, our lawyers may be able to help.
- Fort Bragg (Fort Liberty) – This base near Fayetteville is known for PFAS and TCE contamination from extensive use of firefighting foam.
- Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River (Jacksonville, NC) – Widespread contamination of drinking water (1953–1987) with over 70 toxic substances (including VOCs like TCE, PCE, benzene, and vinyl chloride) has been recognized by the VA and is linked to several presumptive conditions.
Veterans living in Raleigh who served at contaminated bases in the state or elsewhere in the U.S. may be eligible for VA disability benefits. Our VA-accredited attorneys are proud to stand with Raleigh veterans, helping them pursue the maximum compensation for service-connected conditions caused by environmental hazards.
Ratings and Compensation
The VA assigns disability ratings in 10% increments, from 10% to 100%, based on how much your service-connected condition affects your daily life. This rating determines the amount of monthly, tax-free compensation you receive.
If you have more than one service-connected condition, the VA doesn’t simply add the percentages. Instead, it uses a weighted formula to calculate your combined disability rating.
Below is the monthly compensation for a single veteran with no dependents living in Raleigh:
- 10%: $180.42
- 20%: $356.66
- 30%: $552.47
- 40%: $795.84
- 50%: $1,132.90
- 60%: $1,435.02
- 70%: $1,808.45
- 80%: $2,102.15
- 90%: $2,362.30
- 100%: $3,938.58
If you have a spouse, children, or dependent parents, your monthly benefit will be higher. You can estimate your total compensation using our VA calculator.
Alongside federal benefits, veterans also qualify for state benefits, such as tax exemptions, transportation discounts or education benefits for dependents.
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When Do You Need a VA Disability Lawyer?
While VSOs and claims agents can help with filing, a VA-certified attorney is especially valuable when you’re appealing a denial or pursuing an increased rating. Attorneys who focus on VA disability law bring a deep understanding of complex VA rules, regulations, and procedures. These laws are constantly changing, especially with reforms like the Appeals Modernization Act, and keeping up with the latest legal updates is essential to presenting a strong appeal.
Hill & Ponton focuses exclusively on VA appeals and disability rating increases, and our legal team is experienced in handling even the most complex cases. Our VA-accredited attorneys stay current on every policy change and procedural update to ensure your case is handled with precision.
We can help you gather the right medical evidence, develop a compelling legal strategy, and represent you before the VA or Board of Veterans’ Appeals. We have a 96% success rate on the appeals we accept, because we dedicate the time and resources needed to build a winning case. Find out more about the veterans we’ve successfully assisted from our clients’ stories.
Other Resources for Veterans in the Raleigh Area
Wake County has one of the largest veteran populations in North Carolina, many of whom are living with service-connected disabilities. This reflects a community that deserves strong, sustained support. While our legal team proudly represents veterans in Raleigh and nearby areas like Cary, Apex, Garner, Wake Forest, Clayton, Knightdale and Fuquay Varina, veterans here also have access to valuable resources through local VA facilities and community organizations dedicated to their care and well-being.
Veterans Assistance
North Carolina Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (NC DMVA) Headquarters — 413 North Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27603; Toll Free: 844‑624‑8387
Wake County Veterans Service Office — 4401 Bland Road, Raleigh, NC 27609; Phone: (919) 212‑8387
Wake County Veterans Services (Garner satellite) — 1027 US‑70, Suite 202, Garner, NC 27529; Phone: 984‑232‑7060
Raleigh Vet Center — 8851 Ellstree Lane, Suite 122, Raleigh, NC 27617; Phone: (919) 361‑6419
Durham County Veterans Services — 414 East Main Street, Durham, NC 27701; Phone: (919) 560‑8387
Johnston County Veterans Services (serving Clayton area) — 309 East Market Street, Smithfield, NC 27577; Phone: (919) 989‑5067
VA Medical centers & Clinics
Raleigh VA Clinic — 3305 Sungate Boulevard, Raleigh, NC 27610; Phone: (919) 212‑0129
Raleigh III VA Clinic — 2600 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27604; Phone: (919) 286‑0411
Clayton-East Raleigh VA Clinic — 11618 US 70 Business Highway West, Suites 100 & 200, Clayton, NC 27520; Phone: Refer to clinic directory
Durham VA Medical Center — 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705; Phone: (919) 286‑0411; this is the primary VA hospital serving veterans in Raleigh and surrounding areas
Durham Southpoint VA Clinic — 3114 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 100, Durham, NC 27705; Phone: (919) 286‑6899
Housing Assistance and Support for Veterans in Raleigh and Wake County
The Durham VA Health Care System, which serves the Raleigh area, is helping combat veteran homelessness through its HUD-VASH program: a partnership that combines HUD housing vouchers with VA case management and support services.
Using a Housing First approach, the program prioritizes stable housing for high-need veterans and connects them to essential health care and support. Veterans in Wake, Durham, and nearby counties can access the program through a VA provider referral or by calling the National Homeless Hotline at 1-877-424-3838, available 24/7.
If you’re a veteran at risk of homelessness or struggling with an underrated VA disability claim, Hill & Ponton is here to help. Our VA-accredited attorneys specialize in disability appeals and assist veterans in securing the benefits and housing support they need. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.