Army Scales Back Disability Counsel Services: What Every Soldier Needs to Know About the New DES Representation Rules
Army Announces Significant Reduction in Office of Soldiers’ Counsel Services
On May 27, 2026, the Office of The Judge Advocate General announced substantial changes to the legal services available to Soldiers participating in the Army Disability Evaluation System (DES). The changes are driven by staffing shortages within the Office of Soldiers’ Counsel (OSC) and will significantly affect who can receive legal assistance during the disability process.
Why Are Services Changing?
The OSC has experienced dramatic reductions in authorized staffing over the past year. Since May 2025, the organization has gradually limited its services in response to personnel shortages. Army leadership has now determined that OSC must focus exclusively on those services required by law and prioritize representation for Active-Duty Soldiers.
What Changes Take Effect Immediately?
Effective immediately, OSC will no longer provide legal services to Soldiers—regardless of component—prior to the Informal Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) stage.
This means Soldiers undergoing Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) processing, preparing Independent Medical Reviews (IMRs), submitting rebuttals, or otherwise navigating the early stages of the DES will no longer have access to OSC representation during those critical phases.
Major Change for Reserve and National Guard Soldiers
Perhaps the most significant change affects Reserve Component Soldiers.
Beginning July 1, 2026, OSC will cease providing legal services to:
- Army Reserve Soldiers;
- Army National Guard Soldiers; and
- Soldiers serving on active-duty orders of fewer than 30 days.
This restriction applies to both duty-related and non-duty-related disability evaluation cases and covers all stages of the DES process.
For many Reserve Component Soldiers, this means they will need to seek assistance from private counsel or other available resources if they wish to obtain legal guidance during disability proceedings.
Changes for TDRL Members
The Army also ended OSC representation for members on the Temporary Disabled Retired List (TDRL), including representation at formal hearings.
TDRL members often face complex reevaluation processes that can affect retirement status and benefits. Under the new policy, those individuals will no longer have access to OSC representation.
Limited Assistance for Active-Duty Soldiers
Even Active-Duty Soldiers will see reduced support.
Under the new policy, once an Active-Duty Soldier receives Informal PEB findings, OSC services will generally be limited to a single legal consultation appointment. While this still provides access to legal advice, it is a significant departure from the broader representation previously available.
What Does This Mean for Soldiers?
These changes underscore the importance of understanding the disability evaluation process early and proactively gathering medical and service records.
Particularly affected groups include:
- Soldiers preparing Independent Medical Reviews (IMRs);
- Soldiers responding to MEB findings;
- Reserve Component members in the DES;
- National Guard Soldiers undergoing disability evaluations; and
- TDRL members facing reevaluations or hearings.
As legal resources within the Army become more limited, timely education and informed decision-making will become increasingly important for Soldiers seeking to protect their benefits and future careers.
Looking Ahead
Citizen Soldier Law is uniquely positioned to advocate for Soldiers and Officers navigating the Army DES process. Our firm was founded with a singular mission: helping wounded, ill, and injured service members successfully navigate the complex military disability system and protect the benefits they have earned through their service.
You do not have to face the Army DES process alone. Whether you are seeking a second opinion, developing a strategy for your case, responding to unfavorable findings, or pursuing full legal representation, we are committed to helping you understand your options, make informed decisions, and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you believe you have been affected by the Army’s reduction in legal services, contact Citizen Soldier Law. We stand ready to help when you need experienced guidance the most.
What we are sharing is not legal advice, so please do not rely on it without speaking with a lawyer
Reading this does not create an attorney–client relationship. Every situation is fact-specific, and outcomes depend on the details of each case. You should consult a licensed professional for advice specific to your situation.
