If you or someone you know is navigating a personal injury, disability claim, or divorce, understanding how work ability is impacted is essential. This is where a vocational evaluation comes in. However, many people are unsure when to reach out for this valuable service.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what a vocational evaluation is, how vocational experts help, and when it’s the right time to call one—especially if you’re involved in a legal case. We’ll also highlight how OAS (Occupational Assessment Services) provides trusted vocational evaluation services.
What Is a Vocational Evaluation?
A vocational evaluation is a comprehensive process that assesses an individual’s ability to work after an injury, illness, or other factors. Vocational experts review a person’s skills, education, work history, and medical condition to provide professional opinions about their current job capacity and potential employment opportunities.
Vocational experts use evaluations to help individuals understand what types of jobs they may be qualified for or if retraining is necessary. Their expert insights are invaluable in various legal situations, particularly in personal injury, workers’ compensation, disability, and divorce cases.
What Does a Vocational Expert Do?
A vocational expert specializes in understanding jobs, career paths, and the relationship between an individual’s skills and available employment opportunities. These professionals are well-versed in the duties, wages, and availability of jobs in various industries. They are trained to assess whether someone can return to their previous job or transition to a new career after a physical or mental setback.
Vocational experts often collaborate with attorneys, insurance companies, and courts to provide detailed, unbiased evaluations. Their professional opinion can significantly influence the outcome of legal cases related to employment, disability, or personal injury.
When Should You Call a Vocational Expert for an Evaluation?
Knowing when to seek a vocational evaluation is key to getting the right support at the right time. Here are the most common scenarios where a vocational expert can make a difference:
1. After a Serious Injury or Illness
If someone has suffered an injury or illness that impacts their ability to work, a vocational evaluation can help determine whether they can return to their original job or need to explore different career options. This is especially crucial in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases, where the evaluation can help prove lost earning capacity and potential future wage loss.
2. During a Disability Claim
When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or other disability benefits, a vocational evaluation is invaluable. Vocational experts assess the claimant’s ability to perform work based on their medical conditions and current abilities. The expert’s report provides solid evidence that can strengthen the claim and improve the chances of being approved for benefits.
3. In Divorce or Spousal Support Cases
In divorce proceedings, particularly when spousal support or alimony is being discussed, a vocational evaluation can be necessary to assess a spouse’s earning potential. For instance, if one spouse left the workforce to raise children, a vocational expert can evaluate how much they might be able to earn now. Courts often use these evaluations to determine fair spousal or child support amounts.
4. When Settling Legal Cases
If you’re preparing for a legal settlement or trial, having a vocational evaluation early in the process can provide critical evidence. Attorneys use vocational experts to help clarify their client’s work ability, which can be pivotal in negotiations or court proceedings. A well-prepared evaluation can strengthen the case by offering factual insights into a person’s employability.
5. For Rehabilitation and Return-to-Work Plans
If someone is recovering from an injury and is considering returning to work, a vocational evaluation can help create a plan that matches their abilities, interests, and current health. This might include retraining, education, or other forms of support. This is especially useful for individuals, case managers, and insurance companies working on rehabilitation plans.
6. In Long-Term Unemployment Situations
For those who have been out of work for an extended period due to injury, illness, or other factors, a vocational evaluation can offer guidance. The expert can provide insight into what types of work may still be a good fit based on the individual’s skills and health status, helping to restore hope and direction in the job search process.
7. When You Need Expert Testimony in Court
Vocational experts often serve as expert witnesses in court. Their professional assessments and opinions are respected by judges and juries alike. If your case involves questions about a person’s ability to work, their wages, or lost earning capacity, having a vocational expert testify can provide strong, credible support for your case.
Why Choose OAS for Vocational Evaluations?
When it comes to vocational evaluations, choosing the right expert is critical. OAS (Occupational Assessment Services) offers over 50 years of experience in providing trusted vocational evaluations for a wide range of clients, including attorneys, individuals, insurance companies, and other professionals.
Here’s why OAS stands out in the field of vocational evaluations:
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Certified Experts: OAS has a team of certified vocational experts who are experienced and court-tested.
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Comprehensive Evaluations: OAS provides detailed, clear, and easy-to-understand reports that can be used in legal cases and decision-making.
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Nationwide Services: OAS serves clients across the United States, providing expert evaluations wherever you are.
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Trusted by Attorneys: OAS has a long-standing reputation for working with lawyers and offering expert testimony in court.
Whether you’re involved in a legal case, recovering from an injury, or planning a return-to-work strategy, OAS can help guide you with expert vocational assessments and support.
Final Thoughts
The right time to call for a vocational evaluation is as soon as you recognize the need for professional insight into a person’s ability to work or earn a living. Whether it’s for a personal injury claim, disability case, or divorce, vocational evaluations are essential tools for understanding employment potential.
By reaching out to a trusted vocational expert early in the process, you can ensure that you have the information you need for better decision-making and stronger outcomes.
Need help with a vocational evaluation? Contact OAS today to schedule a comprehensive assessment and take the next step toward achieving the best possible result.