Like the Air Force, the Navy Physical Evaluation Board- also called the Navy PEB- process begins with the members of the Informal Panel at the Navy Yard conducting a paper review of your MEB, your Command Nonmedical Assessment and any other documents accompanying your package
When you receive the findings of the Informal Panel- also known as the IPEB, you will make an election of rights as to whether you accept the initial findings, wish to seek reconsideration or go straight to demanding a formal hearing at the Navy Yard.
If we do not like the initial findings, I always draft and submit a written Petition for Reconsideration to the IPEB on behalf of my clients first before proceeding to a formal hearing. This is a free bite at the apple, as we will always demand a formal hearing if your request is not granted. When I write your Petition for Reconsideration, you can count on it spelling out what we are seeking and why the evidence supports our request.
This can have one of two results- either they grant us an on the record decision or tell us where the case is weak, so that we can correct any problems prior to a formal hearing. At the formal hearing, we will present any and all evidence, testimony and documents that support our case. If we need to file a Petition for Relief to the Council of Review Boards and perhaps after that to the Board of Corrections for Naval Records-BCNR- just relax. It is all covered by my fee agreement- one price, start to finish- no surprises.
Most lawyers will tell you how good they are at Navy cases, but I prefer to have my clients speak for me:
“When Jack Gately first won my case and I was placed on the TDRL, I had no idea that he would continue to stand by me over the next few years until my case was finalized- at no extra charge! When they tried to reduce my rating and remove me from the TDRL, Jack developed a comprehensive case brief and the supporting evidence needed to get me permanently retired. Get this- he ensured that I received a higher rating than they initially gave me! He did an outstanding job and was always there for me, whenever I needed him.” 2LT Meaghan Whitehead, USMC (ret.), meaghan555@aol.com
“When the VA and DOD lost all of my records and I was found fit to return from the TDRL, I didn’t know what to do. Jack Gately dove right into my case, tracked down lost records and developed a dazzling presentation that easily resulted in my permanent retirement as an 0-6! This was a battle too, as I had been placed on the TDRL as an 0-6 select. Jack persuaded them to do the right thing. He did well by me and I know that he will do right by you too!" CAPT Wollom Jensen, CHC, USN (ret.), waj_8501@hotmail.com
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