Advocating for Veterans
Dechert provides pro bono legal services to veterans, assisting with disability benefits, healthcare services, discharge upgrades, special compensation and issues related to military sexual trauma, employment and education. The firm partners with advocacy groups such as the National Veterans Legal Services Program and the Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program to support veterans unjustly denied benefits. Dechert’s work reflects the firm’s commitment to serving those who served their country.
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Dechert has successfully secured "Honorable" discharge upgrades for several veterans. In two cases, veterans who suffered sexual trauma during service and developed PTSD received upgrades. One, unable to report her assault, went AWOL and received an "Other Than Honorable" discharge. Another was accused of malingering when seeking mental health counseling. A former Marine, who developed PTSD after a sexual assault, had her discharge status upgraded from "other than honorable" to "honorable". Lastly, a Navy veteran, who developed PTSD and substance dependencies, received an upgrade after turning his life around post-rehabilitation and contributing significantly to his community.