Discharge Upgrades
Overview
Our Experts
Many service members who experience post-traumatic stress or traumatic brain injury during their military service don’t receive the care they need. Instead of being met with support, their symptoms are often misinterpreted as misconduct, resulting in a less-than-honorable discharge. These discharges can strip veterans of critical benefits and leave them without support from the Department of Veterans Affairs or other service providers.
A less-than-honorable discharge also creates major barriers to employment and housing. Employers reviewing a veteran’s résumé may request a military separation document, which lists the discharge characterization and reason for separation—potentially exposing the veteran to stigma and discrimination.
Public Counsel proudly supports veterans seeking discharge upgrades to create new opportunities and expand access to benefits. We specialize in discharge upgrade cases involving mental health conditions, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and military sexual trauma (MST). A successful upgrade can restore access to VA benefits and services, improve housing and job prospects, and honor the full scope of a veteran’s service.
Get Help
Services
Public Counsel supports veterans seeking discharge upgrades, particularly those affected by service-related PTSD, traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma, or discrimination under policies like “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” An upgraded discharge can restore access to critical VA benefits, improve job and housing opportunities, and correct unjust records. We also partner with volunteer attorneys to host discharge upgrade clinics that help veterans prepare the necessary forms and documentation for their applications.
Online Intake CLOSEDOur Intake Line is Currently Closed
Public Counsel offers direct legal support to veterans seeking discharge upgrades and also periodically holds clinics in partnership with pro bono attorneys to assist with discharge applications. If you believe you may qualify for a discharge upgrade, please fill out our online intake form to request assistance. A member of our team will follow up with you as soon as possible.
