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10 Apr, 2024 by Donald garcia
I strongly recommend Marcos Rodriguez law firm for its professionalism, knowledge of social security laws, dedication to its work and most importantly the treatment it gives to all the clients from the beginning to the end of each case. Also please with the office staff for the hard work and support that they provide me during my case.
Thank you very much
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27 Mar, 2024 by Monica ward
Sylvia Lopez and her staff were amazing with my case. They did everything made me more at ease and always polite. Highly recommend them.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Mayra mendoza
Everyone in the office is very welcoming and helping. They were very helpful and kept us updated with the entire process. 10/10 recommend Mr Rodrgiuez and his office.
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25 Aug, 2017 by Jaclyn
I selected this attorney to represent me based on research and the reviews. I started filing for disability back in the summer of 2015. All was fine until the parallegal working with me left the firm. From that point on nobody was responsive to any communication. I finally got my date in front of an administrative judge. I called the office to try to get someone to give me guidance on what was the process from this point. It took a week for me to get a call back. Then they said they were no longer handling my case and I should have recieved a letter in the mail. The so called notification letter was dated from the Monday of that week and postmarked 2 days later (had I not reached out to them I may never have known I was no longer a client). The letter said the office said they decided not to handle SSD cases anymore in September 2015. They said they had another firm handeling my case who is reputable and accomplished. The attorney at that firm that handles their caes is known for dealing with drunk driving, workers comp, and pit bull attacks. Not too comforting when you have a social security disability issue. When I called the firm they had no record of my case. I am 45 days out from a judicial hearing I have been waiting for for over 18 months and now I have to find an attorney becasuse Ms. Jurewitz dumped me and didn't have the courtesy to notify me. She didn't even take verify that the people she thought she was transfering the case to were knowledgeable in the area or actually took the case.
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03 Oct, 2015 by Jim
According to the Oceanside Social Security office, I was the first veteran (in March, 2014) to file for SSDI benefits in San Diego under the new Expedited Program for Disabled Veterans (only for veterans Rated 100%, Permanent and Total). What I did not understand, at the time of my initial electronic filing, was that there was a 70+% chance that my claim would be denied, which it was. In fact, my claim was denied a second time when I appealed their first decision.
I could not believe that the SSA wrote, in both their Denial Letters, that I was capable of working 100% time, especially given the fact (documented by the VA, and the UCSD Moores Cancer Center) that I had incurable cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy twice a week for the rest of my life. What???
There is an old saying which is completely true, "Once a Marine, always a Marine."
I had a choice to make. I could do nothing and accept their verdict, or, I could appeal. I decided to deny their denial of my claim.
So, what do you do when you are about to embark on any conflict?
You prepare and get the best defense you can.
The first thing I did was search the internet, where I found the AVVO website. I searched San Diego disability lawyers, and then I found the one with the highest (10.0) rating, Lee Jurewitz. I emailed her office. No response. I called them, and it was lucky I did because their server was having problems. I told them my story and was accepted as a client.
If you are reading this, you should understand that SSDI claims take a LONG time to process.
My claim took 17 months from my initial application, to the successful hearing with the Administrative Law Judge and my attorney, Ms. Jurewitz. And I had an expedited claim, not only because I am a disabled veteran (100% P&T), but also I am a TERI (terminal illness) case. 17 months. There were others at the downtown Social Security office, waiting for their hearings, who had waited over four years.
So, you need to learn several things:
1) Be patient. SSDI claims will take a long time to process. They are understaffed and overworked.
2) Hire a good, reputable attorney. The maximum they can make on an SSDI claim is $6,000, or 25% of the retroactive backpay, whichever is less. They are well worth the money (which is deducted from your final payout from Social Security).
3) Document, document, document all your medical appointments, etc. Help your attorney to help you.
4) Be honest with your attorney, and above all, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). If you are truly disabled, it will be obvious to everyone because of your medical documentation and your demeanor. Do not fake anything or you will ruin your credibility and you will deserve to lose your case.
It may seem that the ALJ hearing is adversarial, but it is the job of the judge to make certain you are disabled, and believe me, the ALJ will ask you some very personal and embarrassing questions--but that is their job. Be honest and make sure the judge understands your disability. Explain how your disability affects your life and why you cannot work.
SSDI is not just handed out, and it should not be. If you are able to work, or you are faking it because you think you might get some easy money from the government, I will tell you right now that you are sworn to be truthful during your hearing and the penalties for defrauding the government are severe. They should be.
So, if your initial SSDI claim is denied, which in all likelihood it will be, and you have a legitimate case, I would strongly urge you to find a good, reputable attorney to represent you, and AVVO can help you find the right attorney for you.
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08 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I'm so glad that I chose Lee to take my case. She is very knowledgable, efficient and professional. She and her staff are caring and always got back to me in a timely manner. It was reassuring to know that I could trust Lee and her staff to do a great job handling my case.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Katie
Having never used this site before, I was skeptical. However, I received a prompt response and good guidance based on the limited information I was able to provide. Thank you.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Sheila thomas
The cream of the crop!
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04 Apr, 2023 by Ophelia & me
This place has a settlement check sent toy husband out of date and they refuse to issue a good check and no information or help!!!!!
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24 Dec, 2022 by Jeff fields (jr)
27 May, 2024 by Hope virtue
Having been injured at work and being let go after working there for 20 years because I filed for Workers Comp (WC) were the darkest points of my working career. In my experience, filing for WC was a big discouragement given that I’ve learned big corp. usually would fire injured workers to avoid paying for the medical/financial benefits that are due to them. They would also strip you of the retirement benefits that you’ve worked for over the years. Unfortunately, all these things happened to me. Thank God for Super Lawyer Lisa Ivancich and her great staff for bringing justice to my case. I’m forever grateful for her tenacity, knowledge, and hard work in representing and settling my case favorably. While filing for WC/SIBTF took years to settle, Lisa and her staff were always there for me. Lisa is not only a Super Lawyer, she is also a wonderful person who listens and understands where I was coming from. She would not give you high hopes, but she and her staff gave their best in getting the medical/financial benefits that I truly deserved. Thank you, Lisa and staff for everything. I really appreciate your hard work, empathy, and caring over the years. I will miss you and your staff. If you need a competent and great lawyer, I highly recommend Lisa and staff and the Ivancich & Costis lawfirm.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Marie bothe
11 Jul, 2023 by Luz gonzalez
31 Oct, 2023 by Jana rust
Amazing Attorneys!! I can't say enough good things about them! I am thankful I trusted them with my case! God bless
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27 Aug, 2022 by Donna dunn
19 Jan, 2022 by Cassandra torres
08 May, 2024 by Srp projects
Gary Kwasniewski is not just a great lawyer, he is a great human being. He was kind enough to have a substantive conversation with me about my matter. He then proactively referred me to one of his amazing colleagues. After that introduction, he had a follow up conversation with me. When matters arise, one of the most important things is to find a lawyer who is knowledgeable, supportive, and dedicated. Gary is all three.
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16 Mar, 2024 by George
29 Feb, 2024 by Yang sean
A very friendly firm. Spoke with Kwasniewski regarding a cargo accident, after he heard the whole case patiently, point out why this is not covered under their practice, but detailed the directions I should seek. Good practice, recommend !
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26 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Not impressed. Unorganized and unprofessional correspondence. Her last correspondence with me said “change your contact information with social security as any new information coming in will be shredded. “ wow. Fired her.
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09 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Wendy Dumlao took on a very complex case of a severely-autistic young man in need of nursing care. She was excellent in compiling complex information and presenting in a manner in which represented the client's unique and individual needs.
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08 Feb, 2011 by Shannon
Wendy was amazing! We had a case against the Poway school district because of the way our handicapped son was treated by his teacher. She was incredible at advising us of our rights and assisting us in filing all of the complaints. She wrote the complaints for us using our information. She was so patient and so compassionate with all of our questions. More attorneys need to be like Wendy and remember why they got into law in the first place....to help people! Thank you Wendy, our son is now in his new school because of your help and is doing amazing!
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08 Oct, 2020 by Melissa
I retained The Velez Law Firm after being subjected to a hostile, discriminative, and retaliatory work environment. I was treated unfairly, demoted, and eventually fired after 27 years of employment for speaking out against these matters. I left the job feeling hopeless, depressed, and financially deprived. The situation affected me physically and emotionally. I selected Mark Velez and his team to represent me based on recommendations from my lawyer contacts, and by his proven track record of winning and successfully settling employment discrimination cases. From the moment I began working with Mark Velez and his colleague Natalya Grunwald, they were responsive and professional. Mark helped me weigh all my options and potential course of action, and he set realistic expectations from day one. He listened to all the facts and gave insightful explanations as to what to expect during every phase of my case. Mark worked diligently in getting this matter resolved and getting me compensation for the wrong that was done to me by my former employer. The outcome was more than fair and favorable. My experience with The Velez Law Firm was highly positive, and I strongly recommend Mark and his team to anyone that has experienced employment discrimination and retaliation.
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27 Jul, 2018 by Tara
Mark Velez took on my Employment discrimination case. I was written up and fired for not completing my job in a timely manner after returning back to work for medical leave. I was out of work for 8 weeks on mental disability leave. I spoke to Mr. Velez for a consultation and he immediately reassured me that being fired was not my fault. Mr. Velez and his team worked tirelessly on my case. Kept me informed at all times and finally won my case. I couldn't have found a better lawyer. Mark Velez is truly a Bulldog in the industry. Highly recommended!
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03 Mar, 2016 by Lori
I only spoke with Mark one time before the initial settlement conference. He was obviously unfamiliar with my case. The judge told him that the statue of limitations was up on an important aspect of my case. He was an embarrassment to me. He was the rudest person that I know. He later tried to tell me my case was over when it wasn't. I came away with a small settlement, no job and an IRS bill for $7000. His wife also an attorney said it wasn't taxable.
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24 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
We don't know how this attorney is still practicing law.
Client has been the subject of potential stalking; being disallowed from communicating or asking questions. Allegedly, this attorney has breached "The implied covenant of good faith and fair dealings--breaching the contract of attorney-client representation; has attempted to coerce client to to sign a substitution of attorney to show that client terminated the contract when it was the attorney who communicated that he was withdrawing from the case, because the client called him outside of unreasonable time parameters that attorney had recently enacted within much less than 30 days. Attorney has committed so much more maleficence, committing harm to client's conscience with evil intentions and hate, but client will defer.
Any fees that this Guy would try to collect from client, if the court deem proper, would be "Unconscionable Fees".
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12 Jul, 2018 by Frank
I couldnt find a lawyer who would talk to me but Guy met me right away and explained in detail why I wouldnt win my case. I didnt think I would but my other lawyer told me to try. He looked over all my med info and explained why I didnt have a case yet but after I turn 55 to get back with him. He gave me papers to have my Dr fill out and talked to me and answered all my questions. He didnt rush and didnt charge me anything. It might not sound like he helped me but other lawyers had me wasting my time! He didnt.
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27 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
When I hired Guy, I had been fighting the insurance company on my own for about 1 1/2 years. When asked how much the insurance company was paying me, he immediately knew I was being underpaid. He asked for a hearing, and I was awarded back pay in tune of 14,000!!. I was so grateful. Guy knows his stuff and I highly recommend him!
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02 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I wish I would of know more about this attorney before hiring this incompetent man. My case has been dragging on for years with this man and honestly this should of been a simple case to begin with (no need for details on case) bottom line is i have wasted a lot of my time with this man. He shows up late, makes you feel like you are wasting his time, will not and I repeat WILL NOT follow through with a signed contract and will avoid communication at all costs. It's pretty bad when your client does all the leg work for you Gerald!!
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18 Oct, 2014 by Miles
After some thirty years of nursing it finally happened, I was helping a partially paralyzed patient to his wheelchair ; when he slipped I caught him and felt a pull in my back. Two days later I could barely walk. MRI revealed herniated disc. Coworkers advised me to get a lawyer. When i first Mr. Scher he listened to my story, He told me I did not need a lawyer, that my company would take care of me. When the hospital's insurance company denied my claim I returned to Mr. Scher, he immediately went to work for me, told me not to worry, he would take care of everything. To make a long story short, when the insurance co. wanted to give me a partial settlement Mr. Scher went to battle mode. He got me a full settlement with more money than I thought, and he got the insurance company to provide me medical care for any issues, or problems I may encounter in the future related to my work injury. When you are injured you NEED an experienced attorney. I would recommend Jerry Scher to anyone . He wiill get you results. Just remember this is a process, you have to be patient, and trust your attorney.
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02 Sep, 2014 by John
I hired Scher in 2012 for personal injury. I did ALL the discovery. Scher was non-responsive
In all communications, then threw me to the wolves because the case was too difficult
Fir him to handle. He is COMPLETELY incompetent.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Mohammad al abdallat
Barry robbins he is the worst person I have seen in my entire life . He is not a real lawyer, always lying, creating stories not honest I was having a case with him since 2 years and tell today he didn't pay me my settlement I hire a lawyer for that and he will take care of him because I'm not the first person there's a lot of his clients he did with them this , he is not professional , he is not honest , he lying alot I don't recommend him at all I told you from experience , see you Barry at state's bar associations , you are scammmer
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09 Jul, 2024 by P d
Kris Cirby been an outstanding advocate for me with my ongoing domestic abuse case. She has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure our best interests are represented. I am extremely grateful for her support. I cannot thank Kris Cirby enough for their exceptional support and dedication. She has stood by me through thick and thin, providing invaluable legal assistance . Her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment have made a significant difference in my life. I am deeply grateful for her continued assistance.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Amber pilling
Barry Robbins at Matthew Brekhus Attorney at Law offices did an amazing job in getting my personal injury case settled. I would definitely recommend him to anyone. Barry was polite and handled my case in a timely manner.
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17 Apr, 2021 by Marcia
This lawyer helped us during a very difficult time. She is excellent, easy to talk to, understanding and knowlegeable. I would use her again. We are grateful.
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15 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms Powell is an attorney for Senior Legal of Santa Cruz County, CA. I am a senior citizen of Santa Cruz County, CA. This last year, a 30 something woman, threatened to shoot me, and release an attack pit bull dog, to kill my chihuahuas and to attack me. I turned to senior legal to help me get a restraining order, Melia Powell just simply wouldn't help me. Eventually this same young woman, emboldened by the lack of consequences, also threatened another neighbor in the same way, that neighbor did get a 5 year restraining order to protect herself from this dangerous 30 something woman.
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29 Nov, 2019 by Kaye bunch
I dealt with him during my Chapter 13 in 2015. I had totalled my my car and needed to purchase another. This required court approval. His lack of response and follow up delayed my purchase over 30 days. During this time, I had to pay for a rental car. Involving his boss was the only way I could get anything done. It was so bad that the law firm reimbursed me for the month of car rental.
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24 Jan, 2011 by Wendy
Oliver got the process of bankruptcy running quickly and smoothly. Oliver was always easy to get in contact with via phone or e-mail. I have already recommended his services and will continue to recommend him.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Melissa gladstone
16 May, 2024 by David hill
17 Apr, 2024 by A. shah
Mike Flory deliberately tripled my restitution in a criminal case several years back. Just read an OC Register article that he tried to drop the hammer on others as well. Questions: why does he still work here? How does 1 get reimbursed for malfeasance?
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30 Aug, 2015 by Susan
I signed paperwork 8 years ago for mr. Miller to work on my SS claim. After months of not hearing a word either way and an appeal hearing in the near future I gave up. I hired another attorney who won my case. Mr miller has now won a fee petition for his time spent on my case, which by the way didn't include any correspondence. Two years after someone else won my case , after he withdrew, he was awarded money. You make your own conclusions.
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01 Feb, 2014 by Tabitha
I am re-reviewing based on faith that the rest of my current matter receives as much attention until it is resolved as it has since I placed my last review and got back in touch with Mr. Miller's team. The SS administration had opened a claim in 2012 that I hired Mr. Miller to help me with in 2009; in which I handled with the assistance of another person. Although I informed SSA that Mr. Miller was no longer my attorney, the SSA paid him 25% of the new claim anyway. SSA was next to impossible to talk to and figure anything out (if I could get a hold of someone), and some of the explanations I received were down rite lies. After almost a year of trying to get a hold of anyone to give me any actual answers (obviously after I reviewed Mr. Miller), I figured out what happened (I think.) I just found out from an SSA employee (if this persons info is assumed to be correct) that if Mr. Miller agrees that he didn't represent me in this matter than all fault of Mr. Miller getting 25% of this claim is the SSA's fault. Mr. Miller has sent me the letter I need to send to SSA stating that he wasn't my lawyer after 2009 (and faster than expected.) Before this confusing matter (all matters with SSI are confusing), I was and am now again impressed with Mr. Miller and his team. The team was so pleasant in helping me figure this out that I have felt nothing but regret in posting a hasty negative review. SSA can take years in matters and I suppose this time will be no different. I am posting my change of point of view on faith, that the $3,957.75 is eventually given to the appropriate person responsible for the new claim and all work from 2009-2014 in my behalf. On faith that nothing fishy goes on in which Mr. Millers team ends up not refunding the 25% of the awarded claim. However I feel confident and will rave in recommendations for Mr. Miller and his entire team based on their overall performance once this matter is justly resolved. P.S. when you review this post could you please remove the other one I placed titled "I didn't even know he was still my lawyer." In that post I posted all of the information I had at that time, but with the new information I received the first post is no longer valid or even has "all the facts."
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13 Jan, 2014 by Tabitha
I hired him to handle a claim for me in 2009 and after it was settled, a part of the settlement was paid to him and I was happy with that. I haven't seen or heard from him or his practice since and wasn't even aware he was still considered my lawyer because I complete all forms and appointments on my own. I just found out that SS paid Ronald Miller an additional $4,000 in 2013; not for the SSD that he helped me with but the SSI I continued to fill out paper work for on my own long after I hadn't heard anything from Mr. Miller. The benefits came to $7,703.75 and his attorney fees were $4,045.75; more than 50%! I wasn't kept "in the loop" or well informed after the initial first couple of months. I wish someone would help me figure out what is going on.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Victor bowker
27 Nov, 2023 by Maria hernandez
Seeking advice with an issue pertaining to county ordinance, I was met by a receptionist who was condescending and rude. As I was trying to explain the urgency she repeatedly interrupted me. After she was not willing to check with "[Von]" on an appointment (because his secretary was out), she asked I call another law firm and gave me the name of Krase. Frustrated, I said thank you and she just cut me off and hung up. Very rude and unprofessional to say the least.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Brenda soldani
Not sure loved it is appropriate but my lawyer has stayed with me through my whole lawsuit ordeal so I guess 5 stars would be right
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27 Aug, 2024 by Lusmin
look for a different legal service. this is scam. they always request very low amount of money and then alot of money for your case
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26 Aug, 2024 by Alfredo rojas
Mi esposa hizo un contrato con sus abogados, hace 6 meses esta pagándoles y todavía no ha visto resultado alguno y cuando reclamamos nos dicen q nos van a demandar en fin nos sentimos estafados. Sinceramente son lo peor...
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01 Aug, 2024 by Mariana sandoval
If I can rate it zero stars I would. This is absolutely a clown show of lawyers that just pass on the case from lawyer to lawyer! Nobody seems to have any information of anything. They pressured us to get the money within an hour to have the case worked on immediately. Which stressed my family and me out getting the money! As soon as we got it they comfort us saying they will start, but no lawyer ever contacted us and the day of the court they didn’t even BOTHER TO SHOW UP! Which resulted in the court to be pushed back till next month. Absolutely disappointed, I trusted this firm because I was recommended by one of their own employees! I urge anyone that is looking for a good lawyer and actually do their job DO NOT COME HERE! They will take your money and not give a care about your case !! They prey on financially unstable people to pressure them and take their money! Unfortunately I was a victim of this false advertisement they show case. I urge anyone that is trying to get their loved one out please don’t come here! There is a reason why they have less than two stars on ratings
Si puedo calificarlo con cero estrellas, lo haría. ¡Este es absolutamente un espectáculo de payasos de abogados que simplemente pasan el caso de abogado a abogado! Nadie parece tener información de nada. Nos presionaron para que consiguiéramos el dinero en el plazo de una hora para poder resolver el caso de inmediato. ¡Lo cual nos estresó a mi familia y a mí por no conseguir el dinero! Tan pronto como lo recibimos nos consolaron diciendo que empezarían, pero ningún abogado nos contactó y el día de la corte ¡ni siquiera SE MOLESTARON EN PRESENTARSE! Lo que resultó en que el tribunal se pospusiera hasta el próximo mes. Absolutamente decepcionado, confié en esta empresa porque me recomendó uno de sus propios empleados. Le recomiendo a cualquiera que esté buscando un buen abogado y que realmente haga su trabajo ¡NO VENGA AQUÍ! ¡¡Ellos tomarán su dinero y no se preocuparán por su caso!! ¡Se aprovechan de personas financieramente inestables para presionarlos y quitarles su dinero! Lamentablemente fui víctima de esta publicidad falsa que muestran caso. ¡Le recomiendo a cualquiera que esté tratando de sacar a su ser querido que no venga aquí! Hay una razón por la que tienen menos de dos estrellas en las calificaciones.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Birdy
These people are scammers beware, "representing" these corrupted collection companies who buy liens off of towing companies and try to collect payment from whoever shows is the registered owner of the vehicle at the time, they don't even do research or get their facts straight, just try to take advantage of people that will let them. That's why they don't even put their real contact information on their fake letters. Stop pretending you are a legit lawyer you lowlifes.
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05 Feb, 2023 by Fuck d s s
Intelligent funny and confident all the things you need in an attorney
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28 Jul, 2022 by Naomi mora
07 Oct, 2021 by David
This person is not an attorney who can represent claimants because she works for the school districts.
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30 May, 2019 by Amanda hossmann
Today, I made the long drive over the hill to Encino, to see a SSD Attorney, who came recommended by a friend who has received his SSD. The waiting room was freezing cold & empty. After filling out the paper work, I was called in by a young woman I thought was the Receptionist, or Assistant. To my surprise she then sat down and I realized she was the Attorney. She was as cold as the waiting room, never smiled, or asked me the traditional how are you, etc. The conversation was very brief. She refused to look at my paper work from
the Attorney who initially did my SSDI claim. I was in and out in about 3 minutes! My friend who drove me couldn't believe it!
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20 Apr, 2017 by Celie
I spent less than 5 minutes in his office this morning and in that time, this attorney did everything in his power to agitate me with his arrogance by telling me without looking at ANY of my medical reports, or hearing anything about all my new disabilities since I was originally given SSDI in the first place!! He took a look at me and said in a stern voice and without even letting me explain my health issues, "I'm not going to take your case unless you have medical paperwork saying that you 100% disabled!!". I then handed him a pile of medical records, and said very upset, "Here are my records! You will see that I'm disabled!". Not liking that I was clearly upset by his abrupt egotistical interrogation, he then handed me back my records and told me to get out of his office! Unbelievable!
After I got cancer and after I was originally approved for disability in the first place, I then broke my back 3 times, in 9 places over a 1 year period time. Radiation treatment for colon cancer weakened the structure of my bones and I now have osteoporosis and arthritis, I limp from that and I lost 3 inches in height. I also now have other physical disabilities from the cancer and other new medical problems that limit my ability to function daily, yet in 5 minutes, without letting me explain all my medical history or looking at the medical records, he decided NOT to take the case based on me sitting in a chair. He stated that the new administration is denying a lot more cases and it sounded like he was asking me questions to quickly get rid of me, rather than asking appropriate questions to take the case.
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What a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Can Do for You
A Social Security and Disability lawyer specializes in helping individuals navigate the complex process of applying for and securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These lawyers assist clients in filing applications, gathering necessary medical evidence, appealing denied claims, and representing them in hearings before administrative law judges. A lawyer can help maximize the chances of approval by ensuring that the paperwork is accurate, deadlines are met, and legal standards are addressed.
If you are disabled and unable to work, or if your Social Security Disability claim has been denied, a Social Security and Disability lawyer can guide you through the legal process to obtain the benefits you’re entitled to.
When Should I Hire a Social Security & Disability Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer in the following situations:
- Applying for SSDI or SSI benefits: The application process for disability benefits can be complex, with strict requirements and documentation. A lawyer can assist in completing the application correctly and submitting the required medical evidence to improve your chances of approval.
- Denied disability claim: If your initial claim for SSDI or SSI benefits has been denied, a lawyer can help file an appeal and represent you in hearings. Many claims are denied initially, and having legal representation during the appeal process significantly increases the chances of success.
- Requesting reconsideration: After an initial denial, you have the right to request reconsideration of your claim. A lawyer can help present new medical evidence or correct any errors in your original application.
- Hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration request is denied, you may request a hearing before an ALJ. A lawyer can represent you during the hearing, preparing you to answer questions and presenting a strong case based on your medical and work history.
- Proving medical conditions: If your disability involves complex medical conditions, a lawyer can help gather expert medical testimony or additional evidence to demonstrate that your condition meets the legal criteria for disability.
- Overpayments and cessation of benefits: If the Social Security Administration (SSA) claims you were overpaid or attempts to terminate your benefits, a lawyer can assist in challenging the decision and protect your right to continue receiving benefits.
- SSI for low-income individuals: If you are applying for SSI, which is based on financial need in addition to disability, a lawyer can help ensure that your financial records are correctly submitted to meet SSA’s strict income and asset limits.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help you avoid mistakes that could delay or jeopardize your claim.
What Does a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Do?
A Social Security and Disability lawyer provides a range of services to help individuals navigate the application and appeals process for SSDI or SSI benefits. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing initial applications: A lawyer can help prepare and file your SSDI or SSI application, ensuring that all necessary forms are completed accurately and medical evidence is included.
- Gathering medical evidence: A lawyer works with your doctors and healthcare providers to collect medical records, treatment histories, and expert opinions to support your disability claim.
- Filing appeals: If your initial application is denied, a lawyer can file an appeal and guide you through the reconsideration process, ensuring that any additional documentation or evidence is provided.
- Representing you in hearings: A lawyer will represent you in front of an administrative law judge, helping you prepare for the hearing and arguing your case to demonstrate that your disability prevents you from working.
- Handling deadlines and paperwork: A lawyer will ensure that all deadlines are met, and that any requests for additional information from the SSA are responded to promptly.
- Negotiating settlements (for private disability insurance claims): If your disability benefits claim involves private disability insurance (in addition to or instead of SSDI/SSI), a lawyer can help negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Fighting benefit terminations or overpayment claims: If the SSA attempts to terminate your benefits or claims you were overpaid, a lawyer can defend you in administrative proceedings or file for a waiver or reconsideration.
How Are Social Security & Disability Lawyers Paid?
Social Security and Disability lawyers are typically paid on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if your case is successful, either through the approval of your disability benefits or winning an appeal. Here's how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The fee is usually 25% of your past-due (backpay) benefits, but no more than $7,200. This fee structure is set by the SSA, and lawyers cannot charge more than this amount for SSDI or SSI cases.
- No cost for future benefits: Lawyers are not entitled to any portion of your future monthly disability benefits. Their fee is strictly limited to a percentage of your backpay.
- Additional costs: In some cases, you may need to pay for additional expenses, such as obtaining medical records or expert witness testimony. These costs are usually minimal, but it’s essential to ask your lawyer about any additional expenses upfront.
It’s essential to confirm fee arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid misunderstandings.
How Much Does a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer is typically structured around the contingency fee system outlined by the SSA. General cost information includes:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer’s fee is capped at 25% of your backpay, with a maximum of $7,200. For example, if you are awarded $10,000 in backpay, the lawyer will receive $2,500 (25%), and you will receive the remaining $7,500.
- No cost for future benefits: Lawyers are not entitled to any portion of your future monthly disability benefits. Their fee is strictly limited to a percentage of your backpay.
- Additional costs: In some cases, you may need to pay for additional expenses, such as obtaining medical records or expert witness testimony. These costs are usually minimal, but it’s essential to ask your lawyer about any additional expenses upfront.
Overall, there is no financial risk in hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer, as they only get paid if your case is successful.
Top Questions to Ask a Social Security & Disability Lawyer
Before hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with Social Security Disability cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling SSDI and SSI cases similar to yours, particularly if you have a complex medical condition. -
How do you charge for your services?
Confirm that the lawyer charges a contingency fee and that you won’t owe any fees unless your claim is successful. Ask if there are any additional costs for medical records or other expenses. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Disability claims can take time, especially if you’re appealing a denial. Ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what the typical timeline is for cases like yours. -
How will you help me prepare for my hearing?
If your case is going to a hearing before an administrative law judge, ask the lawyer how they will help you prepare for testimony and present your medical evidence effectively. -
What happens if I’m denied again?
Ask about the next steps if your reconsideration or appeal is denied, including the possibility of further appeals to federal court.
How to Check the Credibility of a Social Security & Disability Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable Social Security and Disability lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for Social Security experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in Social Security and Disability law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on Social Security Disability matters.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Membership in organizations like the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) can indicate that the lawyer is committed to representing disability claimants.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a Social Security and Disability lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Medical records: Bring copies of your medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, treatment histories, and any disability-related diagnoses.
- List of medications and treatments: Provide a detailed list of any medications you are taking, treatments you have received, and ongoing medical care related to your disability.
- Denial letters (if applicable): If your disability claim has been denied, bring a copy of the denial letter from the SSA, along with any documentation related to your appeal.
- Work history: Provide information about your previous jobs and work history, including details about how your disability has impacted your ability to work.
- Social Security application (if already filed): If you’ve already submitted an application, bring a copy of the application and any correspondence you’ve had with the SSA.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions you have about the legal process, the lawyer’s fees, and what to expect in terms of timelines and outcomes.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your situation.
