About John B. Gately

John "Jack" Gately is an AV-rated former judge advocate who concentrates his practice in the area of disability law, military law and veterans’ rights, Social Security disability law, international humanitarian law, and the law of armed conflict. He is a member of the ABA, the Judge Advocate Association, the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives, and the bars of the Commonwealths of Virginia and Massachusetts as well as the District of Columbia.

His hobbies or volunteer activities include: gold dredging, volunteering with NGOs combating human trafficking and the use of child soldiers, kayaking, biking, jumping waves with wild abandon on jet skis and practicing amateur stand-up comedy routines on neighbors, friends, family, business associates and other hapless, unsuspecting victims..

 

Awards

Reviews for John

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Overall Rating
Showing 1-10 of 239 client reviews from Lawyers.com
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5 stars
87%
4 stars
12%
3 stars
0%
2 stars
0%
1 star
1%
What do people say on Lawyers.com?
Communication
4.9
Quality of Service
5.0
Responsiveness
4.8
Value for Money
5.0
Military Law
Posted by anonymous
March 10, 2026
Hired Attorney

Hiring Jack was one of the very best decisions I have ever made in my life. Jack has a very difficult job. He deals all day with sick and injured service members, a lot of whom aren't particularly happy to have woken up one day so sick or injured, their military careers were about to end. Besides being a technical expert in his field, Jack is incredibly optimistic, easygoing, and will be your cheerleader when you need it most. Having Jack believe in me is what gave me hope when times were very dark for me. Besides being a world class attorney, Jack has a natural talent for uplifting anyone's spirit when times get rough. One of my life's greatest gifts and blessings has been able to work with Jack. I won't miss the military but I will miss Jack's sharp wit, sense of humor, and friendship throughout my medboard process.

 
Veterans Benefits
Posted by anonymous
November 05, 2025
Hired Attorney

Having Mr Gately in your corner during the MEB/PEB/VA process is a must. My wife and I were both active duty and got sick around the same time with autoimmune conditions. When the MEB topic was first brought up by military docs, we researched and decided Mr Gately’s help was our best chance to get through the processes with the best outcomes. We were right. Mr Gately helped both me and my wife fight through military medical paperwork errors and faulty decisions that could have resulted in the most blatant system failures and lack of accountability. As a prior service member, I understand it may seem like a tough choice to pay thousands of dollars in fees to a lawyer to get you through an MEB when you assume it would just work itself out right, but it’s a choice I absolutely support. Don’t sell yourself short, the potential for things to go sideways with your paperwork is real.

 
Military Law
Posted by Adam
October 25, 2025
Hired Attorney

Mr. Gately is, without a doubt, the best in his field and I would recommend him to anybody going through the IDES process. From his free consultation through the end of the process when I received the intended result of a return to duty, he was nothing short of a consummate professional who worked tirelessly to ensure that the case was as strong as we could humanly make it. It was through his help that we were able to not only get me returned to duty as an officer in the Air Force, but also returned to a flying status as the second pilot with an ostomy in Air Force history, and for that, I have the deepest gratitude to Mr. Gately and say without reservation that if you want to win your IDES case, you should consult with him.

 
Veterans Benefits
Posted by Matthew
October 22, 2025
Hired Attorney

Exceptional Experience – Life-Changing Results Working with Attorney John Gately was truly life-changing. From the very beginning, he treated my case with professionalism, compassion, and incredible expertise. He took the time to understand every detail and guided me through one of the most stressful times in my life with honesty and confidence. John fought hard for me and never gave up. Because of his dedication and deep knowledge, I received the retired result I had been fighting for. He kept me informed, answered every question, and made sure I always felt supported and respected. If you’re looking for a lawyer who truly cares, communicates clearly, and delivers real results, John Gately is the one you want on your side. I’m beyond grateful for everything he’s done and highly recommend him to anyone who needs a strong, trustworthy advocate.

 
Veterans Benefits
Posted by anonymous
July 16, 2025
Hired Attorney

I cannot thank John enough for the outstanding job he did with my case. From the very beginning, he demonstrated deep knowledge, genuine compassion, and a relentless commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to his expertise and dedication, we reached a result that truly exceeded my expectations — the absolute best outcome I could have hoped for. Throughout the entire process, he communicated clearly, kept me informed, and fought hard on my behalf. I always felt like I was in good hands, and that made a huge difference during a stressful and uncertain time. If you’re a veteran looking for someone who truly understands the system and cares about getting you what you deserve, I highly recommend this lawyer. He delivered nothing short of excellence.

 
Veterans Benefits
Posted by anonymous
July 15, 2025
Hired Attorney

My PEB case was extremely complex and was initially denied when represented by a different attorney. Mr Gately then got involved helping me file an appeal and eventually winning my case! I received absolutely incredible service and was so impressed by his knowledge of the system and how to navigate the process for a successful outcome. Would highly recommend anyone going through the PEB to start with Mr Gately right from the beginning.

 
Veterans Benefits
Posted by Chad
July 09, 2025
Hired Attorney

Jack has been a tremendous help through a very difficult time in my life. I was faced with issues from the Navy and VA after being referred into the IDES system. He was able to make sense of things I had no idea about. He helped me with a poor C&P examiner, VA documentation, and ultimately the full IDES process. He was indispensable in my case and a professional I would gladly recommend. If you do not have a grasp of VA, IDES, or LOD processes, Jack would be an excellent choice to help you achieve the correct outcome. He is a quality military/disability lawyer and I highly recommend him for any legal matter.

 
Veterans Benefits
Posted by Marcus
July 03, 2025
Hired Attorney

I found out I was going to the MEDBOARD at the beginning of this year, and after shopping around for lawyers I chose Jack. After our initial interview over the phone, Jack had this aura of possessing great knowledge and confidence with his area of practice. After reading his very helpful e-booklet titled "How to Win Your Navy IDES Case" on his website, we formulated a plan of attack and Jack was there every step of the way. I ended up being found fit to continue on active duty at the IPEB, and I could not have done it without Jack's help! He truly cares about his clients and is available outside of what would be considered "normal working hours" (I am on the west coast, Jack is on the east coast) for any assistance. I owe a sincere debt of gratitude to Jack! 10 out of 10 would recommend!

 
Military Law
Posted by anonymous
June 02, 2025
Hired Attorney

I have been working with Jack for two years navigating my medical retirement, and I can't say I would have been successful in my case without his help nor can I say I would have endured without his compassion and encouragement. During the two years, I was sent through the MEB to be found fit by the PEB and return to duty. A second MEB was initiated and with Jack's help was rightfully finally found unfit. He is extraordinarily knowledgeable with the IDES process and, for lack of better words, just an outstanding guy. I have already recommended him to a friend and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone. Thank you, Jack.

 
Military Law
Posted by Alex
May 27, 2025
Hired Attorney

Working with Jack is an absolute must, in my opinion, if you are entering the IDES process for a service-connected disability. He is a true expert in the field and will guide you through every step of the process. He has a keen understanding of the requirements to get you the benefits you deserve- worth every penny and well-vetted through many of my friends and fellow service members who have used his services over the years.

 

Services

Areas of Law

  • Military Law 1
    • Veterans Benefits
  • Criminal Law 1
    • Federal Criminal Law
  • Administrative Law 1
    • Administrative Hearings and Appeals
  • Social Security 1
    • Social Security Disability
  • Other 5
    • Military Disability Law
    • Military Personnel Law
    • Federal Practice
    • Military Discharge Upgrades
    • Correcting Military Records

Practice Details

  • Languages
    Spanish
    French
  • Payment Information
    Payment & Cost Features
    Free initial consultation
    Fixed hourly rates
    Fixed fees available
    Accepted Credit Cards
    MasterCard
    Visa
  • Firm Information
    Position
    Member
    Firm Name
    John B. Gately Attorney & Counselor at Law
  • Pro Bono Services
    Time Spent on Pro Bono Work: 5%

    My pro bono practice focuses on veterans' benefits and minor matters in the military disability arena.

  • Additional Links

Experience

  • Bar Admission & Memberships
    Admissions
    1988, Massachusetts
    1995, Virginia
    1996, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
    2000, U.S. Court of Claims, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
    1995, District of Columbia
    1995, U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia, U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court
    Memberships
    Virginia State Bar
    Federal and American Bar Associations
    National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives
    National Institute of Military Justice
  • Education & Certifications
    Law School
    New England School of Law
    Class of 1988
    J.D.
    cum laude
    Other Education
    State University of New York at Albany
    Class of 1983
    B.A.

    Northeastern University
    Class of 1984
    M.S.
    Economic Policy and Planning

Contact John B. Gately

Member at John B. Gately Attorney & Counselor at Law
4.9
244 reviews

2332 Croix DriveVirginia Beach, VA 23451U.S.A.

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  • Sunday By appointment

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Attorneys FAQs

  • Is this attorney admitted to practice in any U.S. Federal Courts?
    John B. Gately is admitted to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.
  • Is this attorney Martindale-Hubbell Client Review rated?
    Yes, John B. Gately has a 4.9 Client Rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
  • Does this attorney offer any legal services for a flat fee?
    Yes, John B. Gately offers fixed fees for certain legal services.
  • What year was this attorney's law firm established?
    John B. Gately Attorney & Counselor at Law was established in 1995.
  • Is this attorney listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers?
    John B. Gately is listed in the Criminal Trial Practice, General Practice, Military Law and Social Security section of the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers.