Published on
Katie Becker, a staff attorney at the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic, recently helped secure nearly $200,000 in retroactive VA disability compensation for veterans—in just one month.
Many veterans wait years—sometimes decades—for the benefits they’ve earned through their service. The VA claims process is often long, complex, and frustrating, requiring careful navigation of regulations, medical evidence, and procedural rules. Without experienced advocates, many veterans are denied the help they need or are forced to wait even longer. That’s where Becker comes in.
“These results don’t happen overnight,” Becker said. “They represent years of hard-fought advocacy, and the trust that our clients place in us to see it through. I feel incredibly lucky to do this work and deeply honored that our clients allow me—and our students—to stand by their side through such a difficult process.”
Becker’s success last month included multiple cases in which veterans received long-overdue benefits, often dating back several years. In each case, she worked closely with law students to analyze the record, develop persuasive arguments, and push VA decision-makers to finally get it right.
“Katie’s commitment to our clients is unmatched,” said Brent Filbert, Director of the Veterans Clinic. “Her work changes lives—and it shows students what’s possible when you combine legal skill with a real sense of purpose.”
The Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic provides free legal assistance to veterans and their families in VA disability claims and appeals. Since its founding in 2014, the clinic has helped recover over $20 million in VA benefits and secured numerous discharge upgrades for veteran clients.