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Self-Help Tools

These tools are created for specifically for veterans, service members, and their families. They explain your legal rights in several areas of the law and will help you navigate both the VA and court.

Benefits

Information on VA benefits, Social Security benefits, how to files claims, and how to appeal denials.

Civil Rights & Immigration

Resources and information on civil rights, immigration, citizenship, and voting rights.

Discharge Upgrades & Military Record Changes

Information on discharge upgrades, military record changes, and VA Character of Discharge Determination.  

Health & Safety

Topics covered include health insurance, medical care & leave, and filing claims based on MST , PTSD , or TBI. 

Housing & Real Estate

Resources and information on topics such as homeownership, landlord/tenant rights, and subsidized housing.

Education & Employment

Topics on education benefits and employment protections including the GI Bill, post military training, and employment rights.

Money & Debt

Resources covering credit and loans, taxes, collections and repossessions, and bankruptcy.

Family Matters

Resources on divorces, child support, adoption, custody, domestic violence, and estate planning.

Criminal

Learn about criminal law, how a criminal history can impact VA benefits, and how to find help for your criminal case.  

Women

Resources and information on topics such as women's healthcare, domestic violence, and veteran services for women.

LGBTQ+

Information on health care, discharge upgrades, and various LGBTQ+ resources. 

Jim's Mailbag

Jim's Mailbag is a regular column where veterans, service members, and family members can ask Jim Strickland their questions about VA and Social Security disability benefits.

Vietnam Era or Vietnam Veteran?

Who is considered a Vietnam Veteran?
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Citizenship?

What's the best path for citizenship a veteran can take?
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Advocate Resources

These resources are intended for advocates and lawyers alike. They are designed to help you in your work with people who have military experience.
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What's New

StatesideLegal keeps you up-to-date on the latest resources posted to our site. You can see the latest postings below and can receive our monthly newsletter, The Giant Voice, by entering your email address in the “Stay Updated” section to the right.

Stay Updated

Enactment of the Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative Act of 2020
The Servicemembers and Veterans Initiative Act of 2020 was enacted on January 5, 2021. Read how this helps Veterans, Servicemembers, and their families protect their rights.
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DD214

DOD Memoranda Guiding Discharge Review Boards on PTSD, TBI, and MST
This article provides important information to veterans with less-than-honorable discharges who want to upgrade their discharge based on in-service mental health conditions or experiences.
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