When people think about veteran-owned businesses, they often picture defense contractors, consultants, security firms, or government contractors. Those businesses certainly matter, but some of the most mission-driven veteran-owned businesses I have encountered look very different. They are family farms. They are breweries. They are distilleries. They are ranches. They are agricultural operations and small manufacturing businesses rooted in local communities. Before focusing m

Many traditional law firms are built around a physical office. They pay rent, utilities, furniture costs, office equipment, maintenance, parking, reception staff, and a variety of other expenses that have little to do with solving a client's legal problem. Those costs have to be paid somehow, which often means higher hourly rates, larger retainers, and invoices for every phone call, email, or meeting.

Historical Note: This Service Model Is Discontinued HISTORICAL ARTICLE — This post describes the Firm’s former federal/LEAP service model. That model is no longer offered, and the service descriptions and invitations below are not current offers. This article is retained as historical material, not as a guide to the Firm’s current services. For current fee options, see Legal Fees. Federal systems are complicated. That is not a criticism. It is simply reality. Whether someone

One thing I’ve been thinking about lately is expectations when it comes to VA claims, appeals, VSOs, accredited reps, and attorneys. I watched a video recently from a retired rater who made a point that stuck with me. He basically said that unless someone has worked for the VA, they’re never going to fully understand VA claims the way VA employees do. There’s some truth to that. Former raters absolutely bring valuable experience to the table. But I also think that statement g

Attorney Chris Burnette testing hydration levels in field corn prior to harvest. This particular corn is called "pre-whiskey" and is used to make Bourbon. If you are looking for help with a VA claim or appeal, you may have heard: “Find a local attorney.” A nearby attorney may be a good choice. But for a VA benefits matter or an appeal before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, proximity is only one part of the decision. The attorney’s authority to practice in that

Historical Note: This Service Model Is Discontinued HISTORICAL ARTICLE — This post describes the Firm’s former federal/LEAP service model. That model is no longer offered, and the service descriptions and invitations below are not current offers. This article is retained as historical material, not as a guide to the Firm’s current services. For current fee options, see Legal Fees. If you serve as a supervisor, program manager, or senior leader in the federal government or non

Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon National Park A Little Bit About Me I am Chris Burnette. I am an attorney, Air Force veteran, former federal employee, and someone who has spent most of my life working in and around public service. At my core, I believe in duty, service, and showing up with integrity. This law practice grew out of that background and a simple belief. People deserve clear guidance when navigating complex systems. Why This Work Matters to Me Too often, indi

Historical Note: This Service Model Is Discontinued HISTORICAL ARTICLE — The legal subscription model described in this post is no longer offered by the Law Office of D.C. Burnette, PLLC. I have retained this article as a record of an earlier approach to making legal help accessible. Its subscription descriptions and invitations are historical, not current offers. For the Firm’s current services and fee options, see Legal Fees. The Golden Gate Bridge from Kirby Beach, Marin C