About the Court
The Court was created under Article I of the Constitution by the Veterans' Judicial Review Act (Pub.L. No. 100-687) on November 18, 1988. Originally named the United States Court of Veterans Appeals, its name was changed effective March 1, 1999, by the Veterans' Programs Enhancement Act of 1998 (Pub.L. No. 105-368). The seven active judges on the Court are appointed by the President, and confirmed by the Senate to serve either thirteen or fifteen year appointments. The law that created the Court is in chapter 72 of title 38, United States Code.
The Court reviews certain BVA decisions. The Court is not part of the VA. It does not hold trials, receive new evidence, or hear witnesses. It reviews your BVA decision, the written record, and the briefs of the parties. You do not need to come to Washington, D.C. for your appeal.
Remember: You must have a final decision from the BVA - not the RO - before you can appeal to this Court.
