The Vocational Expert’s Perspective (Presented by National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives)

In “The VE’s Perspective,” Jesse Ogren offered an in-depth look into the complex and multifaceted role of the Vocational Expert (VE) within the context of forensic and rehabilitation services. Drawing on his extensive experience across state and federal vocational rehabilitation systems—including work with the Veterans Administration and the Departments of Vocational Rehabilitation in Arizona, Wisconsin, and Minnesota—Mr. Ogren shared valuable insights into how VEs assess employability, labor market factors, and functional capacities in a range of cases, from personal injury and workers’ compensation to ADA and divorce proceedings.

Mr. Ogren discussed the practical realities of providing expert testimony, conducting vocational evaluations, and collaborating with attorneys and rehabilitation professionals to ensure fair and objective outcomes. Attendees gained a clearer understanding of how vocational experts form their opinions, the professional standards that guide their work, and the evolving challenges in the field as it intersects with both medical and legal systems.

With his background as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Forensic Vocational Evaluator, Mr. Ogren brought both technical expertise and real-world perspective to the session—highlighting the importance of ethical practice, clear communication, and evidence-based methodology in vocational assessment.

Key topics to be discussed:

• How Vocational Experts Form Opinions and Assess Employability
• Expert Testimony, Evaluations, and Collaboration in Forensic/rehabilitation Contexts
• Professional Standards, Ethical Practice, and Evidence-Based Vocational Methodology

This course is co-sponsored with myLawCLE.

Eligible for up to 1 CLE Credit Hour

This session was originally submitted for CLE as a live, in-person presentation and a live webcast for the 8th Circuit Conference 2025 Conference and may be eligible for self-study credit.

Each state handles self-study credit differently; for questions, please consult your State Bar Association.

Recorded on November 7, 2025

Closed-captioning available