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22 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Asked Mr Payne a few questions and got an immediate response. Thank you
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28 Jun, 2017 by Jb
When I first came to Travis, I was confused and lacking confidence with the Workers’ Comp legal system. Prior to speaking more about Travis, please allow me to explain how I had a 2nd chance to receive excellent legal representation, and meet Travis. My original attorney (not Travis Payne) felt my case had become too complicated, and asked me to settle for what I felt was an inappropriate amount, or pay him more $ money than the previously agreed upon rate. This 1st attorney contacted my former employer’s legal team, and let them know I was soon to be without representation. I felt this was likely done to scare me into paying this attorney what I felt was borderline extortion. Maybe this money was needed to keep up the payments in the opulently decorated fancy facility? What I do know is within days, I received packages of files containing literally hundreds of legal documents. My former employer indicated since I was without an attorney, I would have “X” days to answer many questions or else. I felt I was incompetent to represent myself, and felt I was being intimidated by my former employer. I was under tremendous emotional stress, and suffering from physical pain trying to recover from a serious workplace injury. I was feeling nervous, and knew I didn't have the skill set to manage my case. Unable to think clearly, I contemplated simply dropping my case. After a few less than friendly phone calls from people representing my former employer, I began seeking representation again. I called several attorneys, but struggled to find someone who seemed to care or had sincere interest in my case. I learned some workers' compensation attorneys only seemed interested in easy cases where a person had lost a limb (or worse) during an accident. I was glad I hadn’t lost a limb, however began to feel my situation was hopeless. Here's the good part. I thank my lucky stars for having the opportunity to speak with and meet Travis Payne. When I first met him, he came down the stairs of his modest facility, and had on a Jimi Hendrix T-shirt and jeans. 20 minutes later, I realized I met a true Salt-of-the-Earth Dude. In an hour, Travis taught me more about my rights than my previous attorney had in nearly a year. Travis even advised me of benefits I should have applied for months prior to meeting him. Travis told me, “Write this down, this is really important. I can’t believe your previous attorney hadn’t advised you to, but you still have time.….” Well, I felt and still feel Travis was a well-timed gift. I don’t know that I’ll ever be able to truly thank him enough. He advised me during our 1st call I had a strong case. He was honest, and said it would be a lot of work, but he'd be happy to help. He organized my case quickly, and instructed my former employer to stop contacting me. What a relief! Travis’ team was outstanding! Angie in particular was always exceptionally kind. They sent me a copy of all communications to my former employer, and I never felt in the dark. They also never pressured me to settle. Travis is not a doctor, however his handling of my case genuinely helped my emotional health. Later, my case settled for 800% more $ than the previous attorney asked me to accept. Plus, thanks to Travis’ professional advice, I continue to receive very necessary benefits which I wouldn’t have known I qualified for were it not for Travis’ compassionate, honest, professional advice. Regretfully, I remain permanently disabled, however am able to live above the poverty line thanks to Travis’ ability to advocate for me, and help me see the big picture. My only regret would be not having gone to Travis 1st. I have referred family and friends to Travis, because I feel his rare combination of Honesty, Caring, and Fighting skills are truly hard to find. If you’re finding yourself like I was, and simply unsure what to do with regard to your on the job accident, I would highly recommend calling Travis first.
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25 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Approximately 7 years ago (2010), I was injured while working. My employer did not deny any claims and arranged for the medical care that I needed. Unfortunately, after several surgeries, it became clear to my doctor that I would not be able to return to work in the capacity that I did before the injury. As such, my employer started the conversation regarding medical retirement. Up to the point of retirement, I didn't feel that I necessarily needed an attorney. However, when I started moving towards the inevitable medical retirement, I retained Mr. Payne. I was impressed with him, even before hiring him. I remember calling/emailing Mr. Payne if I had a question about the work comp situation. This was BEFORE I hired him to represent me. I think it says a lot about his character and his desire to help people that get into situations like I did.
After retaining Mr. Payne, he walked me through my journey of retirement at age 27. His knowledge of the work comp system is quite impressive. I must also add that I met with 2 other attorneys before retaining Mr. Payne. The others that I contacted just seemed to really be a little preoccupied with other cases. They also were not familiar with my employers medical retirement process. However, Mr. Payne knew all about the medical retirement stuff with my employer.
I am in my 4th year of retirement, and, to this day continue to have Mr. Payne represent me. He has a wealth of knowledge because he has been doing his job for many years. I have been to hearings with the industrial commission and was very pleased that he grilled the Vocational Rehab folks.
I would certainly recommend Mr. Payne to anyone dealing with work comp mess.
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05 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Very impressive. Extremely competent and thorough addressing my case. I’m thankful for his help.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Annette
Knowledgeable, strategic, compassionate, patient, personable, available, responsive, kind, a person of great integrity.
My elderly mother and I consulted with Neal in the middle of a workman compensation settlement negotiation. During a difficult time when we were anxious, angry and overwhelmed, he calmly and compassionately explained our options and the ramifications of each choice. The information he provided allowed us to focus our energies and emotions to resolve our claim quickly and fairly. He was available every step of the way with spot on advice and counsel. We will forever be grateful we found him. I would recommend him without reservation!
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17 Sep, 2015 by Lea
Neal represented me in one of the most convoluted and complicated WC cases against one of the biggest, most powerful employers in this state and WON. He walked me though some of the toughest and darkest days with professionalism, but also with kindness and real caring for what was happening to me. Neal never backed down from the numerous tough situations that arose in my case, and he always treated me as a part of the team working for resolution. I was thrilled with the outcome of the case and I highly recommend Neal Camak to anyone who wants a truly professional, competent and caring attorney to represent their interests.
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07 Dec, 2018 by Renie
Very knowledgeable and helpful in getting me the benefits from SSD.
He made the process very pleasant.
Will highly recommend him.
Renie
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19 Sep, 2018 by Meg
As a requirement of my private disability policy from my former employer, I had to apply for SS Disability in my second year of getting benefits from that private policy. Mr. Bertics was informative, made the paperwork seamless including the required documentation from my physicians, compassionate and understanding, very generous with his time, extremely patient, and responsive. He's passionate about his work and helping others and I'm not sure I've met a kinder attorney who is also extremely effective. I can't recommend him enough!
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06 Jun, 2015 by Francine
I was a nurse and had to undergo hip replacement. Being overwhelmed with the process of applying for disability, my neighbor recommended using disability attorney Michael Bertics. Mr. Bertics has a very good manner with his clients and is a compassionate attorney. With his help, I got approved for disability the first time around. I highly recommend this attorney.
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01 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
My lawyer worked very hard on my case. She knew just when to submit my records to the administrative office so they could be sent to the judge. This time period gave me the best possible chance for an approval by the judge. Her stratagy worked and I won my case. I would highly recommend Lila Forro to anyone else. Thanks Lila for a job well done.
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16 Jun, 2017 by David
I highly recommend Lila Forro! She is a first-class attorney who from the very beginning, as we discussed my case, I could tell was smart, experienced, knowledgeable and expert in disability law. I felt confident that Ms Forro would present the facts of my case in such a manner that Social Security would clearly see why I was deserving of disability benefits. I felt relief to have Ms Forro involved and in charge. She took responsibility for all matters pertaining to Social Security and me. But if I still had questions she was very prompt in answering and addressing my concerns. Since she knows “the system” so well and how cases progress through it, she was able to reassure me that my case was proceeding as it should. It was just taking a LONG time. At all times Ms Forro was upfront and honest about my chances of receiving benefits. She contacted me often with advice and encouragement. She had just the right amount of compassion and empathy for me and my disability that I felt she truly cared about me, my family and my quality of life.
I believe Lila Forro, along with the hard work and dedication of her staff, is the reason that I am receiving disability benefits today.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Elizabeth
Every step of this very long process was made eceptionally easy through her hard work. She made me feel comfortable about all the stuff I didn't understand. I would highly recommend Lila Forro to anyone who needs an excellant disability lawyer.
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26 Dec, 2021 by Corey spence
Mrs. Jenkins has a very professional staff and practice in the Triad and is extremely capable of handling any/all of your legal needs. Mrs. Jenkins was successful in litigating my workers comp case without having to escalate to the higher appellate courts. If you are in need of an accomplished, compassionate and well versed attorney, look no further than Laura!
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15 Apr, 2019 by Suzanne
“Ms Laura Jenkins is such a professional attorney with a lot of knowledge. When I did not know where to turn after a work injury I know I could count on Ms Laura Jenkins for advice and medical treatment.”
Thank you so much
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02 Aug, 2018 by Deborah
Laura did an outstanding representation for me. We went up against one of major medical employers in the state of NC! I won my case and much to the amazement of my past co-workers who said i would not win... I Did!! Laura did a great job!! I would hire her again!!
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16 May, 2016 by Greg
Totally dedicated to my case, and I could tell she earnestly cared for me and my situation. Devoted to my needs. Hands down best lawyer and person I've ever encountered.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Helen
Michelle Bradshaw is awesome. She has so much experience that she knows about all the judges that deal with Social Security Disability. She gets things done the right way.
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10 Mar, 2020 by Brad
Marty has represented my wife on more than one occasion due to what was pretty much a harassment situation regarding efforts, over several years, by the dol owcp to avoid their responsibility to her. They caused her many sleepless nights, but Marty changed all that. Without getting into the details concerning her situation, or the protracted efforts on their part, let me simply say that Marty Kaplan has, over the years, demonstrated a thorough knowledge of owcp rules and regulations, as well as the law. He has demonstrated a very keen legal mind in his efforts as her advocate. Personally, I do not believe that you can find better representation.
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21 Feb, 2013 by Pamela
SHEILA IS STILL WORKING FOR ME TO GET MY CASE TAKING CARE OF .NO HOLES OR RINGS TO JUMP INTO .SHE IS VERY STRAIGHT FORWORD WITH YOU ALL THE WAY. I WILL ALWAYS COME BACK TO HER WITH ANYTHING.
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11 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Always professional and strategic, Vanessa Lucas is steps ahead and always prepared. Vanessa's innate ability to relate to people leaves the client feeling completely supported and prepared. There are many attorneys in the world, but Vanessa's drive to help people find their voice is what sets her apart. Vanessa was highly recommended to me, and now I will highly recommend her to anyone needing help navigating the unkind waters of an imperfect judicial system.
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23 Jul, 2015 by Earlene
Attorney Bishop helped me with my disability case, and she won the first go round. I had a 5 month waiting period, and then my disability sent me back pay. Thank you Kim Bishop and staff for winning my case.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Debbie lorren
Desiree was a pleasure to work with!! Connects on a personal level and makes you feel like family.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Fonda douglas
Very attentive, ask every question I could ever think of plus more. This is the law firm that I would definitely recommend to anyone that is trying to get social security benefits.
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04 Oct, 2024 by James bailey
07 Oct, 2024 by Debbie lorren
Desiree was a pleasure to work with!! Connects on a personal level and makes you feel like family.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Fonda douglas
Very attentive, ask every question I could ever think of plus more. This is the law firm that I would definitely recommend to anyone that is trying to get social security benefits.
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04 Oct, 2024 by James bailey
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
14 Aug, 2023 by Julia hobbs
Nick is a fantastic and personable lawyer. He went above and beyond to help me with my case. Even after I didn't complete everything I was suppose to, he stuck through and helped me get more time. I'm very grateful that I hired him as my attorney and would highly recommend him to anyone.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Sylvia whitfield
Mr. King was so helpful & patient. He has experience and is knowledgeable in his practice. Any questions I had he walked me through them. I recommend him
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09 Apr, 2024 by Greg edwards
I contacted Mr. King to help process my SSDI application and guide me through the process. He reassured me my comfort level and informed me what to expect each step of the way. I selected him to represent me since he has years of experience as a disability attorney and previously served as a Social Security disability judge. He responded to my emails and test messages promptly. I received a favorable outcome in a timely fashion. I highly recommend his services.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Terrible lawyer and unprofessional. I don't recommend anyone consider choosing him. Look for anyone else in your area and outside of your area.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Hemely sencion
Excellent lawyer, always doing what’s best for his clients.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Jt vu
Law Offices of J.M. Kotzker, P.C is very effective in solving the issue and I will definitely recommend to my friends and others.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Keyes
Good at what they do
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.6
682 Reviews
30 Aug, 2024 by Demetrus
22 Aug, 2024 by Brendan halligan
After dealing with an insurance company that was being relatively unreasonable, Christina and Donald continued to advocate on my behalf and eventually garnered the best outcome that could have been expected. I must give Donald an additional shoutout, as he was incredibly responsive and patient with me as I tried to juggle this matter with other life obligations. Thank you!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer brown
Super FRIENDLY staff. In no time I already had Accomplished of retaining my Lawyer within a few minutes. I Highly recommend!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Demetrus
22 Aug, 2024 by Brendan halligan
After dealing with an insurance company that was being relatively unreasonable, Christina and Donald continued to advocate on my behalf and eventually garnered the best outcome that could have been expected. I must give Donald an additional shoutout, as he was incredibly responsive and patient with me as I tried to juggle this matter with other life obligations. Thank you!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer brown
Super FRIENDLY staff. In no time I already had Accomplished of retaining my Lawyer within a few minutes. I Highly recommend!
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14 Dec, 2023 by Dhejfjkyh fhhghhj
28 Sep, 2023 by Antonia mclean
Jessie Jeffers is a great lawyer. He has helped me with several legal matters over the years, highly recommended.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Tracey leonard
Excellent Attorney! Excellent service!! Attorney Jeffers is the best at what he do!! I recommend Attorney Jeffers to anyone needing Legal services!!
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17 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
My former attorney Flores Was negligent, not helpful, and dishonest. I would not recommend to any client. He was hired to assist with my SS benefits. I had a assistant help me with filling out my application. This assistant proceeded to put false information and events in my application that did not apply to me or my case. Now when I talked to the SS doctor he picked up on this after he performed industry standard test and an interview to determine my condition. The doctor then took the time to inform me that my assistant had lied on the application. This is illegal and would make it very hard for me to proceed forward with SS benefits. When I discussed this with flores he chose to ignore both me and my doctors concerns about FRAUD. As a law abiding citizen this makes me extremely concerned for flores( someone who should know the law better than others and should have high moral standards). Truthfully he seemed more concerned with covering up the lies than even so much as talking to my assistant to correct the mistakes that were put in. He was even threatening, in such a way as to discourage me from reporting the incident. This is a serious matter and self respecting lawyer should undermine something so illegal and wrong. Hopefully other lawyers with morals will read this and help flores change his ways. I do not want, nor do I recommend attorneys that put making money over honesty, integrity, and truth. The other issue I have is he does not listen, he has his own agenda if it doesn’t fit his ideas that’s it (set in his ways, with blinders on). A good lawyer will listen, investigate, and do what is right. flores is the worst. Find another lawyer, one that cares and puts his or her clients first as well as the law.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Randall
Bless Mr Flores..
Mr Flores contacted me before my hearing
And got me prepared..
I was approved because of his work.. and owe him endless thanks..
Bless you Mr Flores
Yes .. I would recommend Mr Flores to anyone ...
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13 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Juan and i were together from the start it took 4 years and 2 trys and he wouldn't let me go belly up. He kept me up to date on the proceedings. He made special trips to come and see me because i was unable to drive to copy or pick up paper work.
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07 May, 2024 by Matt
I wasted 7 months of waiting for Elizebeth to do anything. I contacted Elizabeth back on October 2023 in reference to having her take my case so I could apply for TDIU. During that she recommended that I should apply for a multitude of claims in what appeared to be shot gunning in hopes that something will hit instead of carefully calculating my claim. During my time I could hardly get in touch with her and much of her communication was sparce at best. When attempting to contact her, I could never call, and I had to leave messages with her voice answering service. When I did leave these messages, she would never return them. There was one time she even forgot who I was. If I asked questions, she would give me only generic answers to questions that I already knew not answering the actual questions that I had asked. When I would email her, it would take days for her to respond, and I would sometimes have to send follow up emails for her to respond.
When my claims were filed, she applied for an increase in two claims that I had reservation about in that I knew it was almost a certainty that they would be denied. When asked why they were applied for, she stated that this was necessary to be applied for my TDIU. I asked would the VA reduced my already current rating to which she said it would be very very unlikely. Well, I got my letter today and guess what? My rating was reduced! In something that she stated wouldn't be a problem.
Along with this, I asked her about a claim that was approved through her and the compensation that would come with it and she stated that would take the VA a little for it to process and then I would receive it. However, when the payment never came, I contacted the VA to ask why, and they stated that my claim never went over my current rating to begin with. SOMETHING THAT SHE SHOULD HAVE KNOWN!
Lastly, I began looking at many of the documents that had been sent to the VA via evidence and began noticing that much of the evidence that the VA had asked for had been submitted by me and not her. Many of the evidence records to support my claim had only been submitted by me and not her, and I had noticed that she only submitted paperwork to begin the claim. No other documents had been submitted by her unless I confronted her about it. When I confronted her about all these issues, and demanded her to give me periodic updates, she withdrew as my attorney and stated she was not the attorney for me but still demanded the VA pay her for the " work" she did.
In closing, it appears that Miss Lunn is not the attorney for anyone. She talks a good game, but when it comes to the complete dynamics of the VA, she knows nothing, If you noticed that many of these reviews on here are from 2016 and 2017 and not up to date. She will take your money and she will do barely any work to accomplish it. You will have to do it. I literally could have done this myself with no jeopardy of having my rating reduced. Now I have to deal with that issue because of her. Save yourself some time, DO NOT HIRE HER!
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05 May, 2024 by Kirby
Wasted 5 months not responding doing nothing, then dropped me, when I called back to complain.
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28 Feb, 2017 by Rebecca
Elisabeth helped me get my SSI and SSD. She was very friendly and professional and I can add she is service dog friendly and called the place our hearing took place for me to let them know I had one. Which made things that much easier. I felt like she actually cared about her clients and I'm glad she was there to help me with my long battle.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Do not use this firm. Promised things did not deliver. Didn't get my medical records and lied to me for over six months. Wouldn't submit requests to social security. Degraded me, judged me, left things out. Kept my paperwork. I almost had a stroke from the treatment from this firm. I may never get my case approved now. Should not be able to practice "in my opinion".
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06 May, 2017 by Sylvia
I definitely would not suggest Charles T. Hall. If my review of him will keep someone else from the same experience I had with him, I am glad to have written the review. I only wish I had written it years sooner. I saw his advertisement on television. I wish I had done better research to find an attorney. I expected more from him since he only gets paid if he wins the case. He only presented part of my case & I believe that as a result my case was denied. He refused to carry the case any further with an appeal. At that point, I was left to find another attorney. However, they couldn't pick the case up at the appeal. Therefore, a new case had to be started. But at that point, in my situation, time had run out & there was nothing they could do for me. I was pushing the 5 year limit of being out of work. Now, I have been out of work for 10 years & my conditions are gradually worsening. Between the spinal issues & the Bipolar issues, I doubt I will ever be able to work again. This has left me unable to contribute financially. This has left my husband as the sole provider of our 4 person family. Now, there is no help for me. I recently had a spine surgery & still need 2 more spine surgeries. Most days, I can barely get out of bed due to the pain. The daily pain that I live with has a major impact on my Bipolar condition. I truly feel that my disability case could have been won had Mr Hall presented my case in its entirety rather than just a portion.
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06 Sep, 2014 by Rhr_chat
It took 10 years after a disability started for me to have courage to ask for help. Charles Hall was judgmental, insulting, refused to answer questions .... and actually rolled his eyes and snarled at me . Today I wonder whether I even belong on this Earth. Is that advocacy?
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Questions? We have answers
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.
