If you're dealing with a personal injury, disability claim, or divorce, understanding how someone's ability to work has been affected is often critical. One of the most effective ways to gain clarity is through a vocational evaluation. Yet many people don’t know when to seek this kind of support.
What Is a Vocational Evaluation?
A vocational evaluation is a professional assessment used to determine someone’s ability to work after an illness, injury, or life change. It evaluates key factors such as:
Work history and past job experience
Education and skills
Current medical condition
Earning potential
Job market trends
The goal is to determine what type of work, if any, the person can still do and whether retraining or additional support is needed.
What Does a Vocational Expert Do?
A vocational expert specializes in employment, wage trends, and how individual abilities match up with job requirements. These professionals assess whether someone can return to their former job or if they need to transition into new employment. Their evaluations are often used as expert testimony in legal settings or to support claims with insurance companies.
When Should You Request a Vocational Evaluation?
Here are some common scenarios where a vocational evaluation can be incredibly valuable:
1. After a Serious Injury or Illness
When someone is injured or experiences a medical condition that limits their ability to work, a vocational expert can assess their capabilities and determine what kind of work, if any, is still suitable. These evaluations are especially important in personal injury or workers’ compensation cases, where proving lost earning potential is key.
2. For Disability Claims
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or private disability benefits? A vocational evaluation can provide strong evidence to support your case. It helps show what work-related tasks you can still perform and which jobs, if any, are realistically available to you given your medical condition.
3. In Divorce or Spousal Support Cases
Vocational experts play a key role in divorce cases, particularly when spousal or child support is on the line. For example, if one spouse hasn’t worked in years due to raising children, a vocational evaluation can help determine their earning potential and whether support is justified.
4. When Preparing for Trial or Settlement
Lawyers often call in vocational experts when building a legal strategy. A well-documented vocational evaluation can provide factual, unbiased insight into a client’s work capacity. This can be crucial evidence in both court proceedings and settlement negotiations.
5. To Create a Return-to-Work Plan
Individuals recovering from injury or illness may want to return to work but feel uncertain about what’s possible. A vocational evaluation helps create a realistic, tailored return-to-work plan. This may include retraining, education, or modifications to job duties.
6. For Long-Term Unemployment
For those who’ve been out of the workforce for an extended period, a vocational evaluation can help identify new job paths based on their existing skills and interests. This guidance can provide direction and boost confidence for re-entering the job market.
7. When Expert Testimony Is Needed in Court
Vocational experts often serve as expert witnesses in legal cases. Their evaluations are objective, data-driven, and respected by judges and juries. If your case involves employment, income loss, or future earning potential, expert testimony from a vocational professional can make a significant difference.
Why Choose OAS for Vocational Evaluations?
OAS (Occupational Assessment Services) has been a leader in providing vocational evaluations for over 50 years. Here's why so many attorneys, insurance companies, and individuals trust OAS:
Certified Experts: OAS employs credentialed vocational professionals with courtroom experience.
Clear, Reliable Reports: Evaluations are detailed, easy to understand, and suitable for legal and professional use.
Nationwide Availability: OAS offers services across the United States.
Trusted by Legal Professionals: Known for delivering credible expert testimony and supporting complex legal cases.
Final Thoughts
A vocational evaluation can be a turning point in any legal, medical, or professional situation involving job loss or reduced earning capacity. Whether you’re dealing with a personal injury, disability claim, or divorce, calling a vocational expert early can help you build a stronger case and create a clearer path forward.
Need a trusted vocational evaluation? Contact OAS today to schedule an assessment and get the expert insight you need.
