CAVC (Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims)
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
Federal court where you can appeal a Board of Veterans' Appeals decision. The next level above the VA's internal appeals.
Why This Matters
If the Board denies your appeal, you have 120 days to appeal to CAVC. The court reviews whether the VA followed the law, not whether you deserve benefits. Legal representation is strongly recommended.
Example
The Board denied your appeal. You hire a veterans law attorney who files an appeal with CAVC arguing the Board ignored favorable medical evidence. The court may remand for a new decision.