The Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) is the process used by the Department of Defense (DoD) to determine whether a wounded, ill, or injured Service Member will be returned to duty, separated, or retired because of a disability.
The Office of the Judge Advocate General (OJAG) created the Disability Evaluation System Counsel Program (DESCP) to provide legal representation for wounded, ill, or injured Sailors and Marines processing through the IDES, from referral to final appeal. This includes advice and legal counseling for medical board review, VA claims and compensation and pension examination, Informal Physical Evaluation Board findings review, VA rating review, and representation at hearings before the Formal Physical Evaluation Board.
