The Mayer Law Blog

Should You Hire a Military Discharge Upgrade Attorney in 2025

Posted January 21st, 2025

In 2025, veterans with less-than-honorable discharges face significant challenges that can impede their access to benefits, employment opportunities, and societal reintegration. Navigating the complex process of upgrading a military discharge is crucial for improving one’s quality of life. Hiring a lawyer who specializes in military discharge upgrades can greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful… Read More

Discharge Upgrade Letters of Recommendation – A Quick Guide

Posted January 15th, 2025

We are often asked how to format discharge upgrade letters of recommendation. Here’s a really quick example. This is merely an example of something that has worked before. Your particular case may require something more detailed or tailored to the needs of your case. None of this is legal advice, and you should run your… Read More

The Air Force Discharge Review Board: A Guide

Posted January 3rd, 2025

The Air Force Discharge Review Board (DRB) provides a critical opportunity for former service members to appeal the characterization of their military discharge. Whether you’re seeking a change in the discharge characterization, reason, or narrative, understanding the DRB process is key to improving your chances of success. What Is the Air Force Discharge Review Board?… Read More

Why It Is More Difficult to Get a Military Discharge Upgraded After 15 Years

Posted December 27th, 2024

Navigating the process of upgrading a military discharge can be challenging at any time, but for veterans seeking an upgrade more than 15 years after their discharge, the hurdles increase significantly. Understanding why this happens and what steps you can take to improve your chances is crucial. The 15-Year Rule: Key Regulations The primary reason… Read More

How to Improve Your Chances of a Military Discharge Upgrade

Posted December 7th, 2024

A military discharge determines the benefits and opportunities available to you after leaving the service. If you received an unfavorable discharge, pursuing a discharge upgrade can significantly impact your access to benefits like healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. While the process can be complex, understanding the factors that improve your chances is key. For the… Read More

Air Force Discharge Review Board Class Action Settlement: A Guide

Posted December 5th, 2024

In a significant development for Air Force veterans, a class-action lawsuit—Johnson et al. v. Kendall—has led to a settlement that impacts thousands of former service members. This settlement addresses the review and potential upgrade of discharge statuses, particularly for those affected by mental health conditions or experiences of sexual trauma during their service. Background of… Read More

Navy Discharge Review Board (NDRB): A Quick Guide

Posted December 4th, 2024

If you’re a former Navy or Marine Corps service member seeking to upgrade or change your discharge characterization, the Navy Discharge Review Board (NDRB) may be your first step. Whether you’re looking to access veteran benefits, improve your employment prospects, or restore your reputation, this post will walk you through the essentials of the NDRB… Read More

Your Guide to the Military Administrative Separation Process

Posted November 26th, 2024

The U.S. military administrative separation process can profoundly impact a service member’s career, benefits, and future opportunities. Whether you’re facing administrative separation yourself or supporting a loved one, it’s essential to understand the process, your rights, and the potential outcomes. In this blog post, we’ll break down the administrative separation process, its implications, and how… Read More

The Army Discharge Review Board: A Quick Guide

Posted November 21st, 2024

The Army Discharge Review Board: How It Works and Why It Matters for Veterans For Army veterans looking to upgrade their discharge status or change the reason for separation, the Army Discharge Review Board (ADRB) is the pathway to seek relief. The type of discharge on a veteran’s DD-214 can have lasting effects on employment… Read More

Why Upgrading a Military Discharge Is More Complex Than Writing a Letter

Posted November 18th, 2024

Military service leaves an indelible mark on those who serve, but not all service members leave the military with the discharge status they hoped for. Whether due to personal struggles, circumstances beyond their control, or errors in judgment, some veterans find themselves with less-than-honorable discharges that can significantly impact their benefits, career opportunities, and sense… Read More