Virginia Retirement System v. Ricky A. Blair

RUSSELL, Judge.

The Virginia Retirement System (VRS) appeals the decision of the circuit court reversing VRS’s denial of the disability retirement benefits application filed by Ricky A. Blair, appellee. The circuit court ordered VRS to make disability payments to Blair and awarded Blair “legal fees and costs.” On appeal, VRS argues that the circuit court misapplied the “substantial evidence” standard of review required by the Virginia Administrative Process Act (APA or Act) and that the court erred in awarding Blair fees and costs under Code § 2.2-4030. We agree.

I. Background

Blair entered VRS…