NVLSP Statement on Judge Nebeker’s Passing
All of us at NVLSP extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Judge Nebeker on his passing. He was a dedicated champion of justice throughout his life. While Judge Nebeker dedicated his entire professional career to public service, NVLSP is most grateful to him for his accomplishments as the first Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims (CAVC), where NVLSP attorneys have practiced ever since the Court opened its doors in 1989. Judge Nebeker was instrumental in establishing the Court’s extraordinary foundation and providing veterans with, for the first time since the VA’s creation, the right to challenge a Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision denying benefits in an independent judicial forum. The judicial precedents he helped create have helped to ensure that the VA meets its legal obligations to veterans and their families in deciding claims for benefits. His generosity of spirit and exceptional legal acumen will be greatly missed. He leaves an incomparable legacy of service.