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24 Apr, 2024 by Sharod
Jason is a great lawyer with great patience and works with great concerns to make sure you are satisfied. Thank you for your services
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20 Nov, 2022 by Kim
Very satisfied with Jason's personalized service. he fought hard for me against the insurance company I got everything entitled to. If you are looking a workers compensation attorney I would highly recommend Jason.
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26 Jul, 2022 by Kim williams
I was so depressed get hurt at work work all my life from farm to factory to construction Was advised from a coworker to call Jason Poselvich from Segar S from day one nothing but problems from Workers Comp he dove right in Got paid on time Had my 2 Surgeries approved Then it turned into a disiblity case for me never will be able to do construction again He's right on top of that if you want Results Go see Jason and his team
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03 May, 2024 by Gloria
Have an established Worker's Comp Case., Carrier had Classified my case due to post op complications. Medical addressed, however never received SLU/ Award for injury. Refered to Dan by co-worker, sent letter of inquiry to Law Firm Bronk & Somers, attn:
Daniel Bronk. Within a day, firm called, Elena took 'intake' info, forwarding to Dan Bronk. If he accepts case, Elena will call me with date/time for phone consult. Dan DID, accept case, phone consult happened AND I can say emphatically, I was treated with compassion and respect for MY case.
Nothing had transpired on my case in years, DAN BRONK changed that for me.
The 'integrity' of Mr. Bronk surpassed my expectation! 'Tenacity' in which Mr. Bronk carried out circumstances to my case, 100% plus! Professionalism & Personable, I am eternally grateful.
Dan, thank you for retaining me as a Client, (more than satisfied). Dan and staff, (Elena, Mary, and Jenna), my contacts, ALL, amazing over past several months.
In need of Councel for your Worker's Compenation Case, contact Mr. Daniel Bronk, Attorney @ Bronk & Somers, The Park @ Allens Creek, 110 Allens Creek Rd., Rochester, NY 14618.
Research on line, as 60% of firms business is Worker's Compensation, other areas of expertise as well.
I have and will continue to refer friends and family to Mr. Daniel Bronk @ Bronk & Somers Law Firm.
Regards,
Gloria
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13 Jun, 2023 by Jo
I had contacted 3 other lawyers about my case and no one would touch it. A friend put me in touch with Dan Brock and told me he was the best WC lawyer in the state. He was right. Dan immediately took my case. He guided me through all the phases of my claim, always having my best interests at the forefront. He kept me informed every step of the way and always responded to my inquiries quickly. I will definitely recommend Dan to anyone who needs a lawyer.
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08 Aug, 2021 by Mark
Dan has represented me for 3-1/2 years and because of his knowledge and experience he has always been one step ahead of courtroom appearances,opposing attorneys,and communicating with you that gets you the results you deserve. His office staff is second to none and together they are truly a force to be reckoned with.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Cliff
Mark did a great job representing me!
He and his staff were very professional, courteous and organized.
I truly appreciated the attention to detail provided by Mark and Mary Lynne!
I highly recommend them!
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10 Dec, 2019 by Kay
Mark agreed to take on my appeal of a negative SSI disability ruling. Throughout the process, Mark and his entire staff effectively communicated and executed the steps needed to my ultimately successful appeal. I give Mark my utmost recommendation.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Chris
Mark and Connie did everything in the most professional way to get me my social security disability. Without the advice and assistance they gave me I never would have been able to get through this. Thank you both.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Susan
I struggled to receive the care I needed and deserved for my pain due to a fall at my place of employment. It was time to retain an attorney. I called and immediately was matched with Mark Hayden, Esq. Mark listened to my concerns and was able to get me assistance right away. Along the coarse of my case he has explained in detail the steps we would need to take with Workers Comp. and the outcomes. He has relieved a lot of stress by dealing with the insurance company when I have had nothing but obstacles in the past on my own. I have received the compensation I needed and will continue to receive for my future needs for my partial loss of use in my knees. Thank you Mark for your Support!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Ken
Mark Hayden is the best attorney you can find he took my case and took care of everything, he won my case and I am very grateful for everything he did for me. HE IS THE BEST AND WILL TELL EVERYONE!!!
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03 May, 2023 by David
I worked with Segar and Sciortino a couple of times over the last ten years. I needed their help again when I had a bad fall at work that changed my life forever. It was a very serious injury and I needed help with Workers comp and SSDI. I had met with Stephen Segar for a consultation. He was very professional and very kind. He made me feel comfortable from the first moment I met with him. He is extremely knowledgeable and helped guide me to all of the answers that I needed. I worked with Stephen for a few months until the doctors determined that my injuries were too severe to return to work.
That’s when Stephen assigned Mark Hayden to start working on an SSDI case for me. I had a consultation with Mark in regards to SSDI and again I felt one hundred percent comfortable with Mark after he explained the SSDI process. I can honestly say that Mark did an outstanding job! I loved working with him because he doesn’t beat around the bush. It’s always a straight line when he is explaining things to you. I loved that! If you call him for an answer he will either have the answer or will find the answer for you quickly. If you call him and he is not there, he will quickly return the call. He will keep you updated on every step of the process. He works very well with SSDI and anyone else that he needs to contact.
I will end this review by saying that if you’re in the same situation as I was you can put your full trust in this law firm because they are one hundred percent dedicated hard workers and they are very loyal individuals. You could not be in better hands. It was truly a blessing to work with them.
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09 Feb, 2021 by Venisha
I needed a worker's compensation lawyer. I called a couple of other lawyers and was very turned off by their demeanor over the phone. Randi made a great impression from the very first phone call! She was knowledgeable, professional, and understanding. I would not hesitate to recommend her. She was truly amazing!
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06 Dec, 2016 by Susan
I met Randi Proukou about two years ago. I have back and shoulder issues and needed decent representation.
Randi was my answer to being treated fairly In a system that tries to work against you. She gets her facts straight and keeps up with all the changes that happen Randi is down to earth, confident and ready with answers.
I feel her caring and respectful attitude when we chat. From the beginning she fit the bill. She is enormously talented in her profession. I have since received decent compensation since finding Randi.
I would and have recommended Randi to my friends and peers.
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06 Apr, 2016 by Karen
Randi has represented me on my workman compensation claims. She is very knowledgeable of the ever changing Workmans compensation laws. She will work hard for you and fight for your rights as an injured worker. One thing I like so much about Rand is that when you call or email her she will get back to you ASAP.
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13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
18 Oct, 2021 by Ellen carrion
26 Mar, 2021 by Renita davie
11 Aug, 2016 by Nick
Dan represented my wife and me on a small matter a number of years ago and did an excellent job! I've come to know him over time since then and he is an outstanding attorney and generally good person; a great combo!
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02 Jun, 2015 by Jim
Dan handled my workers comp case and won me more than I expected...He was always on top of things and was in constant communication with me. He is very professional and personable. Would recommend him 100 percent... You won't regret your decision...
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09 Sep, 2016 by Niles
Overall, Thomas and his team at Connors & Ferris were a well organized law firm. They listened to me and really wanted my opinion throughout the case. I would recommend Thomas Ferris to anyone.
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10 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I am completely satisfied with my representation. Mr. Ferris was beyond thoughtful as well as giving me great advice throughout the case.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Alexis ortiz
Very good lawyer I recommend her she help me every single minute explain to me what going to happen through the process for work comp through my surgery. Thank you,
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30 Jul, 2015 by Steve
Steve and his firm handled my worker's comp and social security disability case. Everyone in the firm was fantastic. Answered calls and emails in a timely manner. Answered and explained all of my questions and concerns thoroughly. Worker's comp and social security can be overwhelming when your not familiar with the system, Steve's firm goes a long way to ease that burden.
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06 Apr, 2023 by James bailey
Great, great top attorney excellent Social Security attorney as well
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14 Oct, 2022 by Renee okafor
29 Jun, 2023 by Mackenzie klee
Extremely helpful and knowledgeable about my situation . I felt very comfortable talking and discussing my options to find the best one for my situation.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Fausto prattico
The firm has represented my family and my business on a few matters, from commercial litigation, to creating business contracts and personal matters, including buying and selling a home. My family and I have trusted John and Ed to give us excellent guidance and ensure we were protected. The firm and its partners are responsive and effective. We feel they value us as clients and know us by name, not just a file on their desk. The firm is always responsive to my family and my business needs.
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23 May, 2023 by Dennis annechino
I had the pleasure of meeting and working as co-counsel with John on a case several years ago and he has been a loyal friend and trusted colleague since. As a solo practitioner, it is always comforting to have another attorney to discuss case strategy with and John has always been there for me when I needed it. He is the consummate professional; hardworking, responsive and insightful. He is a zealous advocate and a well-respected litigator. It is with great trust and confidence that I have referred a number of my own clients to John for litigation assistance.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Timothy bulkley
Vincent and his staff really care about each of their clients. They have made the most frustrating period of my life bearable and so much better than it would have been without them. I highly recommend them for any workers comp case or social security case. They are simply the best firm out there.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Melissa shoemaker
Everyone was very helpful and supportive. They took the time to answer my questions and helped me do more with my workers comp case then I ever thought possible! I highly recommend this place to anyone who needs help. To: Vincent, Josh, Dan and Maddie; Thanks for everything! I greatly appreciate all of your time and support throughout this whole process!
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23 Apr, 2024 by Arda
Everybody here is super pleasant and nice
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14 Jul, 2017 by Anthony
Professional quick to respond thank you again.. Info. Very helpful. Would recommend......
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21 Jul, 2016 by Craig
Recently a financial legal issue turned my life upside down. Unsure of my options I called a handful of attorneys and found that they would talk in circles and try to sell me on solutions that I think benefited them more than I. Not with Mr. Suda. From the start he was straight forward with me and explained my options. He helped me through a very difficult process, did not sugar coat my situation and was honest on what options would be best for me. I would highly recommend him should you be seeking help with a legal matter.
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17 Jun, 2016 by Jenny
Mr Suda provided excellent answers to my questions that i needed consultation on for a case. He speaks clearly so that I can understand exactly what he was saying and clarified things i did not understand. He was straight to the point even if the information was not in my favor. Finally he gave me the biggest advice on the case. I am very thankful and would definitely consult with him again.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Louis
I was represented by this firm, specifically Attorney Ryan Reynolds, throughout my Workmen’s Compensation case. At all times, I gained comfort knowing that everything was in very capable hands and did not have to worry. I received immediate answers and reassurance when needed. I was guided through the entire process flawlessly. The outcome was optimal. Thank you for your professionalism and expertise!
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20 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Vincent and his team, for all the care and concern you have shown me, and for working tirelessly to ensure that the law worked in our favor. If it weren’t for your analytical skills and knowledge, the matter wouldn’t have been settled by now. Special thanks to Ryan and Joshua, you all have done a tremendous job Thanks once again for your legal advice, efforts ,time and your expertise professionalism. I will never forget what you have done to make sure I was given a fair trial. You were able to prove the case beyond any reasonable doubt and we were more than pleased with the outcome. I feel so indebted to you for your hard work.You are highly recommended.
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28 May, 2019 by S.r
Everyone at this office is extremely helpful, professional, knowledgeable and caring ! The whole staff was excellent and very helpful through my whole ordeal. I may have been doing quite a bit of suffering from my injury, but they helped me get through it all by taking a lot of the additional worry and extra pain from stress away. They pushed and followed up consistently with my carrier and the WCB to make certain that I had everything that was needed and right for ME and my case. THANK YOU to Vincent, Ryan, Josh, Maggie, Jake, Zeb, Lizzie and everyone there ! I couldn't have chosen a better attorneys office.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Sandrea
Greg handled, and completed my social security case, in 2017. I needed his expertise in this area, and he did not disappoint. He and his assistant, are very good.
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03 Jan, 2020 by Angelo
Greg Phillips handled my Soc. Sec. Disability claim flawlessly, He was very professional and explained every step of the procedure in layman's terms. With his experience & knowledge he helped me achieve my approval under our first request. From beginning to end was approx. 3 1/2 months !! Super Fast thanks to Greg following through on his end dotting the "I's" and crossing the "T's" prior to submitting the application and in a timely fashion. Even after I have received my approval letter from SSD, Greg followed up with a phone call went over everything thoroughly and was there for any comments, questions or concerns. Naturally everyone's cases will very for approval's and time frames depending on your specific criteria, but I can honestly give "2" thumbs up to Greg Phillips and his team for his professionalism in making this process painless and helping me achieve financial assistance for the rest of my life.
THANK YOU GREG !!
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11 Jun, 2019 by Shawn
I retained Mr. Phillips very close to the court date for my social security appeal and thanks to Greg Phillips and his team I won my disability claim. He explained the the ins and outs - things happened as he explained they would. He and his staff were accessible and quick to return calls. I had some follow-on questions after the appeal was aver and he was paid, etc. and received the same great level of support. I emphatically recommend this attorney.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Jimmy stack
16 Mar, 2024 by Vsg 0626
I have no words for the crookedness and cowardess.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Marco rivas
Super skilled and very responsive. This is a differentiator for us. We do healthcare, not legal, so we're happy to share that the team has really come through for us!!
Marco Rivas, CCEP
Chief Compliance and Risk Officer
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23 Aug, 2024 by Angel
It’s been a year since I was served court papers. Should’ve read the one star reviews. Attorney set me back thousands and gave the impression that there was NEVER any intention to win my case. Lack of communication, charging me for fruitless research. None of that is important now. I’ve since tried to self-delete several times since and my life has never been worse since. This is what greed and dishonesty does to people. This law firm took my money so I have the right o share my experience
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20 Aug, 2024 by Macavery shafer
So grateful to the team here for their hard work! They helped me get a ticket reduced and were extremely friendly, transparent, and made sure I understood every step of the process! As someone living in the backcountry with limited service, I appreciated the fact that Destinee and Brian were able to handle everything virtually and were extremely patient with my delayed communication.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Tom dombroski
I highly recommend The Law Office of James L. Riotto. I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my case and they made the process as easy as possible.
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08 Jul, 2024 by C
Great lawyer great mind. He fought hard and got everything straightened out when I was held illegally. I Would highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Scott f
Michael is not only the most ferocious talented defense attorney I've ever seen. He also genuinely cares about his clients and will stop at nothing to keep their best interest his top priority. He's the last guy any DA wants to see walk into their courtroom!
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08 Jul, 2024 by James furey
Michael has been very good to me and my family and has always taken care of us. He will work hard to help you with whatever you have going on, and do everything he can to make the process easy for you. I highly recommend Michael to anyone who needs his help.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Ryan schack
Works primarily for amerifu credit union.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Scott massey
Horrible. Hire a better lawyer
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19 Feb, 2024 by Jessica
I consulted with Alecia after my Uncle recommended her firm for my disability case. I was hesitant and unsure of everything until we got into the courtroom and then Alecia showed her skill and blew me away. I am absolutely convinced I would not have had a favorable outcome if Alecia hadn’t been as experienced as she was. I would not have been able to navigate this alone. She knew exactly what to say and what questions to ask and was clearly very prepared. All I can say to anyone looking to hire her is trust the process! Extremely experienced and obviously I’m super happy with my favorable outcome!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Kevin
Nick is absolutely an awesome top notch lawyer that fights for you a hundred percent. Not only is he a great lawyer he's a great person that cares about your individual needs. He's helped me tremendously and highly recommend him.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Ryan schack
Works primarily for amerifu credit union.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Scott massey
Horrible. Hire a better lawyer
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27 Feb, 2024 by Ryan schack
Works primarily for amerifu credit union.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Scott massey
Horrible. Hire a better lawyer
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14 Dec, 2023 by Damien
Had a worksman comp case and did a great job from start to finish. Always listened to concerns and answered all my quiestions. Would recommend
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10 Sep, 2024 by Cuemadeit
Called in June explained my situation was told they were going to go over it and call me back, here it is Sept 9 I’ve called and left multiple messages and nobody still hasn’t reached back out to me
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15 Aug, 2024 by Your name
Has never returned any of my calls for 10 years
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05 Aug, 2024 by Ian white
4.2
11 Reviews
3.3
13 Reviews
27 Feb, 2024 by Ryan schack
Works primarily for amerifu credit union.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Scott massey
Horrible. Hire a better lawyer
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14 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I gave this attorney my personal injury case, and because she was running for public office, she and her assistant ignored my case. I ended up going pro se, and settling the case myself, with the company's chief legal officer.
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26 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Christopher Mesh made me feel like I wasn't a priority. He asked me to ask my doctor to lie for me. He asked me to lie to unemployment. To delay my care and treatment. He didn't go over the fine details with me for my original award. He didn't fight for me to cover all of my injuries. He only focused on the part of my injury that would make him money. Now, I'm still out of work, not getting any wages, and fighting for approval for my meds, procedures, etc. on my own. He's currently not making any money off of my case, and he clearly only cares and does his job when there are dollar signs in his future.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Theodore
Chris was great, better than I hoped. He stated it would take anywhere from 4 mos. to 2 years to get my SSD claim approved. In 4 mos. I received my approval. He walked me through the letter from my PMD, and reviewed my SSD questionnaire before submitting it. He took care of everything else after an approx. 1 hour meeting with my wife and I. If you need help with an SSD claim, Christopher Mesh, and Connors and Ferris is where you want to be.
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15 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Bambury to apply for Social Security Disability. It took 3 years. I only met him at the end of the process when I appealed the initial Denial. He was exceptionally rude and refused to sit near me and did not talk to me at all, not even about my case. He did not contribute with my video hearing with the judge. I feel like a fool for trusting this person, especially since I have a Law Degree from a different state. His handling of my case was unacceptable and I paid the price for not doing my due diligence in researching NY State Law and blindly trusting him and his office staff.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Kevin Bambury represented me year's ago on a Disability Case. He was very cruel and I was diagnosed with many problems. He was interagating me like I was lying. I would never treat a Client so cruelly.
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12 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
My husband and I went in because the payment of 1414.00 with CCCS was to high hoping a bankruptcy would help. Kevin reviewed our paperwork he advised us chapter 13 would be about 900.00 a month knowing Bob had worked overtime the first 3 months of the yr he stated the payment could be SLIGHTLY HIGHER we should wait about 4 mths and my husb should not work the overtime the courts look at the last 6 months of bank statements. So with knowing this we gave him a retainer of $1000 only to to find out that the payment went up to 867/2 wks the courts go back a yr. We would never had gone this way knowing that the payment is only a few dollars lower, we would have seekked other options. He also told us to stop paying the credit cards, keep the car payment and mortgages current. Now we are not only behind in payments that we would have tried to make arrangements for with Bobs overtime we atre out the retainer fee.
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26 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Failed to include all doctor bills to be paid in final settlement. When we called his office and asked for help they never got back to us, even though we tried several times. We were finally told by his paralegal to just pay it out of our own pocket. Just be ware that you don't get stuck for huge bills do to their oversight. I wouldn't recommend their practice.
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FAQs
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.
