Dedicated to serving the legal needs of individuals and businesses locally, and veterans nationwide.

West & Dunn

Most people try to avoid the legal system, but this isn’t always possible. Whether you’re dealing with a contract dispute and need to file a civil case or you’re facing criminal charges, the most important thing you can do for yourself is to hire an experienced attorney as your legal representative. At West & Dunn, we’re dedicated to helping our clients navigate all kinds of issues, including challenging VA disability claim denials.

How May We Help You?

Services

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How May We Help You?

Services

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Meet the West & Dunn Team

West & Dunn

West & Dunn was founded in 2016 by attorneys Shana Dunn and Travis West, who remain integral members of the team today. They wanted to establish a law firm that focused on providing high-quality legal representation that was affordable for those needing a Wisconsin lawyer. They also wanted to use their talents and legal resources to give back to veterans across the country and have helped many get approved for much-needed disability benefits. Today, the firm has an entire team of attorneys and paralegals and helps clients with cases ranging from civil litigation and criminal defense to real estate law, business succession and estate planning.

CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES

West & Dunn

I recently had the privilege of getting defended by Travis West on a personal injury matter, and I cannot speak highly enough of (…)

by Markus S.

If you are looking for someone that has your’ re back and can do an exceptional job. this is the place. Thank you for all your help.

by Alex P.

Shana, and the whole West & Dunn team did a phenomenal job representing me and my case with the VA. As a veteran, going through that(…)

by Andrew B.

I would recommend this firm to any veteran!!! They are outstanding!! All staff within attorney Shana Dunn’s law firm were extremely (…)

by Karen H.

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Our Legal Practice Areas

West & Dunn

The team at West & Dunn is made up of attorneys who have years of experience helping clients in their specific practice areas. The types of cases our lawyers handle include:

If you’re dealing with one of the legal issues above, contact our firm to schedule a meeting with an attorney to discuss your case. If you’re not sure if your situation falls into one of these categories, we can either let you know how we can help or refer you to another firm, if necessary.

MEET OUR TEAM

West & Dunn

Benoit "Ben" Marc Letendre

Criminal Charges Require Experienced Legal Representation

West & Dunn

Many people have a run-in or two with the legal system during their lifetimes, and working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges, you need an attorney who can ensure you are aware of your rights and advocate for your defense. A criminal attorney can explain your charges, ensure officers follow proper procedure, and help you decide what defense strategy is best for your case.

WHY CHOOSE US?

West & Dunn

Affordable Representation

Battling legal issues is expensive, and the financial strain can add even more stress in an already difficult time. We strive to ensure that our fees are affordable and our billing policies are easy to understand so our clients know exactly what to expect and are never surprised by their bills.

Veteran-Focused Practice

When West & Dunn was initially founded, serving our country’s veterans was a core focus. While we continue to offer a host of other legal services for civilians and veterans alike, helping disabled service members pursue and win VA disability claims is still at the heart of our mission.

Experienced Legal Advocates

When it comes to issues pertaining to the law, experience matters. The team at West & Dunn includes highly experienced and respected attorneys who are knowledgeable in their practice areas and know what it takes to win cases. When you work with our law firm, you can rest easy knowing that you’re in good hands.

Transparent Communication

At West & Dunn, we know how important it is to understand what’s going on with your case and to be an active participant. We pride ourselves on our transparent communication and ability to clearly explain the law and how it applies to each client’s situation.

Wide Range of Legal Services

West & Dunn provides a variety of legal services. This allows us to form ongoing relationships with our clients and serve their legal needs, whether they are facing OWI charges or purchasing a piece of real estate.

Detail-Oriented Approach to Cases

We understand that each case is unique and that the same legal strategies that work for one case may not be the best option for another. We focus on learning the details of your situation so we can determine the right path forward and best represent your interests.

WHY CHOOSE US?

West & Dunn

Affordable Representation

Veteran-Focused Practice

Experienced Legal Advocates

Transparent Communication

Wide Range of Legal Services

Detail-Oriented Approach to Cases

Understanding Veterans Disability Claim Denials

West & Dunn

When service members develop medical conditions related to their time in the service, VA disability benefits can provide them with compensation. However, around 30% of these claims are denied each year. At West & Dunn, we’re dedicated to helping veterans get the compensation they deserve for the sacrifices they made for their country. In many cases, a denial can be overturned with some additional evidence and an appeal. We’re here to help you work through this process and increase your chances of having your claim approved.

Our Team Can Rise to the Challenge

West & Dunn

When you work with the legal team at West & Dunn, you can rest assured that you’re in capable hands. Our attorneys will go over your case with you in depth to ensure we understand all of the details. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each path so you can take the next step fully informed of your rights and what is possible under the law.

West & Dunn’s main office is located in Waunakee, WI, just a 10 minute drive north of Madison. The team at West & Dunn also maintains offices in Baraboo and Manitowoc. They represent clients across the entire state of Wisconsin, and can help veterans pursuing VA disability claims nationwide.

When you need an experienced attorney, you need the team at West & Dunn. Our Wisconsin lawyers are here to advocate for your rights, represent your interests, and help you get through this challenging time. Call our office at 608-490-9449 to get started.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

West & Dunn

VA Disability: Can I Appeal If My VA Disability Claim Is Denied?

Around 30% of initial VA disability claims are denied. However, there are several options available to challenge the decision, depending on the reasons for denial. If your claim was denied because there wasn’t enough evidence to support that your condition was connected to your service, filing a supplemental claim with new evidence can provide the reviewer with what they need to approve your application. If you have no additional new evidence, you can ask for a higher-level review or Board Appeal. If your appeal is also denied, you can appeal that decision as well. For more information on appealing a VA disability claim, check out our page and get in touch with our team today.

VA Disability: What Is a Nexus Letter?

A nexus letter is a letter from a medical professional who is familiar with your condition to the VA. It includes your specific medical diagnosis and what events from your time of service could have caused or worsened your condition. In addition, a nexus letter should state how likely it is that your condition is tied to those service events in the doctor’s professional opinion. To have your VA disability claim approved, the medical professional must believe that your condition was just as likely as not to be caused by your time in the service. To learn more about your options when filing a VA disability claim, visit our dedicated VA disability page.

Criminal Defense: What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony Charge?

Criminal charges come in two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, which means they also have lesser sentences if you’re convicted. In Wisconsin, misdemeanor charges carry potential jail sentences of less than 9 months. In comparison, the lowest level felony in Wisconsin — a Class I felony — carries a potential prison sentence of up to 3.5 years. If someone is convicted of the highest level felony — Class A — they could face up to life in prison. The fines associated with these charges are also higher for felonies. The fines for a misdemeanor can be up to $1,000 for a Class B misdemeanor or up to $10,000 for a Class A misdemeanor. The fines for a felony charge can be up to $100,000. For more information on your potential misdemeanor or felony, visit our criminal defense page and contact us today.

Criminal Defense: Is a First-Offense OWI a Crime in Wisconsin?

Drunk driving is usually prohibited by the state criminal code, but Wisconsin laws differ from the norm. In our state, drunk driving falls under operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, which is most often abbreviated as OWI. The OWI laws also include driving while taking drugs or other substances that impair your ability to drive. If you are pulled over for your first OWI offense, this is not a criminal charge. A first-offense OWI is a civil infraction in Wisconsin, which means it’s roughly the same as any other traffic violation, and you will only need to pay a fine. However, subsequent OWIs or OWIs that involve an injury or fatality are criminal charges. For more help and information on your OWI offense, visit our OWI page and reach out to our law firm today.

Civil Law: How Does Mediation Work for Civil Disputes?

Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution option for civil cases. Instead of moving directly to a trial, the parties agree to attempt mediation to find a compromise. If an agreement is reached, it becomes a legally binding contract once it is signed. Mediation offers several benefits, including being much faster — and therefore less expensive — than litigation on average. It also offers more privacy, as mediation agreements aren’t subject to public records, which can be a major benefit for companies or individuals who wish to keep their legal issues private. For more help understanding methods to resolve civil disputes, including mediation and litigation, visit our page and contact us!

Real Estate Law: What Is an Attorney’s Role in Real Estate Transactions?

Many people don’t think about using a real estate attorney when they buy or sell a home and, instead, focus only on finding a real estate agent. However, by law, only a real estate attorney can provide you with legal advice, which can be crucial to understanding what your rights and obligations are in complex real estate transactions. A real estate attorney is also adept at creating and reviewing contracts and other legal documents and can help you conduct title searches or address any issues that are keeping you from closing. Visit our real estate landing page for more info on your situation and get in contact with us as soon as possible to move forward with your real estate transaction.