Back

How to Get Certified to be a VA Attorney and VA Benefits Explained

When
Tuesday, September 08, 2026
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location
Zoom
Registered
Be the first

Registration

IL NAELA Member
IL NAELA Sponsor
Non-Member – $50.00

How to Get Certified to be a VA Attorney

VA Benefits Explained

Tuesday, September 8, 2026 from 1:00 - 2:00 PM CT

Tentative for 1 general CLE credit

Maryam Abidi, Staff Attorney & Adjunct Professor

Veterans Legal Clinic, University of Illinois Chicago School of Law

Join us for an informative webinar designed for attorneys interested in assisting veterans with VA disability claims and benefits. This session will provide an overview of the process for becoming accredited as a VA attorney, including eligibility requirements, application steps, and the responsibilities associated with representing veterans before the Department of Veterans Affairs.

In addition, the webinar will cover key VA benefits available to veterans and their families, including disability compensation, pension benefits, healthcare, education benefits, and survivor benefits. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how the VA system works, common challenges veterans face, and how qualified advocates can help navigate the process effectively.

Maryam Abidi is an Illinois-licensed attorney with extensive experience in civil rights, employment law, and policy advocacy. She is based in Chicago, Illinois, and is active in the legal community. Abidi serves as a Staff Attorney at the Veterans Legal Clinic within the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) School of Law. Her role involves providing legal representation and advocacy for veterans, often focusing on civil rights and employment-related legal issues. She is affiliated with UIC Law, which is Chicago’s only public law school. Her work is also connected to the Clinical Legal Education Association, where she is also a member. Abidi has participated in public legal and advocacy discussions, including media appearances on topics such as #MeToo in our Movements, alongside other legal advocates. Maryam Abidi is a civil rights and employment law attorney with a strong foundation in public legal education and veteran advocacy. Her career blends clinical legal work, policy engagement, and public service, making her a notable figure in Chicago’s legal community.

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Inc. (NAELA) was founded in 1987 as a professional association of attorneys who are dedicated to improving the quality of legal services provided to people as they age and people with special needs.