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06 Oct, 2022 by Beth
My case was denied the first time while I lived in CA. I contacted Celeste after I moved here and she took on my case. We ended up winning the appeal and now I feel such relief knowing I can now afford my rent etc. Celeste is a very straight on task person. She tells it like it is but also can soothe your worries. I would recommend Celeste for anyone that needs a good Lawyer on your side.
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10 May, 2021 by Diane
Celeste Scalise-Qubrosi and her staff are thorough, professional, and compassionate. They took a thorough medical/surgical history, provided me with authorization for release of medical information which I signed and returned to the Attorney. She then obtained necessary documents for filing and remained diligent and in touch with me through out the process. In the end, it went seamlessly and I am very happy with the results.
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08 Mar, 2021 by Justin
I worked with her for a few years and let me say at the end of the day although times were frustrating not getting my decision she kept fighting for me til we finally won!! She knows her stuff and is very persistent and will do her best to take care of you in your legal matters she never settles and that’s why I said it was frustrating at times but in the end we won and came out on top I’d highly recommend her for anyone
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07 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
George was great and answered my questions. I don’t know if he can help me but I appreciate the feedback.
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06 Aug, 2017 by Nancy
Mr. Escobedo is an excellent and caring attorney. He is very knowledgeable in his numerous areas of expertise and is sincere and up-front as to your case. Apart from these attributes, his staff is also very caring and constantly provide awesome customer service.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Jason
I contacted George Escobedo for help with my worker's comp case resulting from an injury to my back while working in the oilfield. He and his team worked with me through the entire process, helping get my treating doctor changed away from a walk-in emergency clinic doctor to a doctor who had extensive experience dealing with my type of injury. They helped to make sure I had the best of care and the medical documentation from the doctors that were treating me that was needed to ultimately result in me winning my case.
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17 Aug, 2012 by David-anthony burger
I highly recommend you contact Joshua Eyestone for any legal assistance you may need. His knowledge, skill, and careful review of my claim to receive my SS benefits was essential in wining my case. I can't thank him and his firm enough. Do not hesitate. Call him now.
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11 Nov, 2011 by Threasa
Mr. Joshua Eyestone is a great lawyer. This is the first time I have ever had to have a lawyer, and I would definitely recommend him to others. He was very nice, understanding of my disability, patient, and knowledgable. He helped me win my case the first time, and in timely manner. Thanks again Joshua, it was a pleasure to have met you!
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29 Oct, 2011 by Janel
Joshua was pastiont with me and expland every thing to me. He relly wreid my file and new how to use the info to win this cass for me.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Lorene
Over the years, Gladys had advised me on a number of issues ranging from traffic violations to employment related affairs. Her response has always been timely and insightful. Perhaps most importantly she's a trustworthy adviser who conducts business in a friendly manner. I recommend her to anyone seeking legal counsel.
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22 Sep, 2015 by Eli
Ms. Del Fierro handled my speeding traffic ticket. She was able to reduce the fine and keep the ticket off of my record. I have and will continue to refer her to all of my family and friends.
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22 Aug, 2014 by Veronica
Gladys Del Fierro is the best attorney ever. She help us in a juvenile drug charge case. She ended up getting us deferred prosecution which is like a dismissal with minimal probation time. Previous lawyers, the DA, the probation officer all said this could not happen but our lawyer made it happen. Amazing. Just wish i had known about her sooner and my child would not have had to wait 3mths on house arrest. Everyone I spoke to talked about how difficult Judge Kelsey's court is and that my child had little hope. Our impression of the court was changed by our lawyer Gladys Del Fierro, With the proper attorney everything is possible. We needed to hire an attorney out of pocket and she gave us an extremely reasonable rate. Thanks again Ms Del Fierro.
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10 May, 2018 by Jessica
I sought out Packard Law Firm for representation since at least 2014. In the firm they have many nice and caring attorneys, legal aids and staff. However Michael Gross did what my last attorney did not, which was win my case! In meetings over the phone and in person he was always prepared and knowledgeable of my extensive medical history. I had faith in his capabilities because he showed true compassion for me, and for his career. He knew which one of my disabilities was the best to lead with, and throughout the hearing he was poised and articulate. For me it wasn’t just a hearing for social security, it was a fight for my life. He took my doctors notes, medical history and discussions of my pain and suffering to accurately convey to the judge the representation of my “quality of life”, or lack there of. Throughout the hearing it was evident that my faith was well placed in his hands. He thoroughly knew my medical background, was able to direct the judge to exactly where to look throughout the documentation of my exstensive medical history, as well as recite medical definitions & findings for my conditions. Mr.Gross did what others could not, and I’m forever grateful to him. To suffer for years and admit to the world you’re incapable of supporting yourself due to your medical conditions is a hard and embarrassing thing to do. Having Mr.Gross as my attorney, witnessing how he fought for me so I may get the help I needed gives me some of the hope back I lost long ago. I highly recommend Michael J. Gross to be anyone’s attorney. I could tell I wasn’t just another case number to him, he listened and used his skills and training to tell my story to the judge in ways I never could. Thank You Mr.Gross
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05 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
When i meet Mr. Gross i felt a good vipe he is a good Attorney and knows exacly what he is doing and what has to be done for your case. I was so glad he was my attorney he explain to me every thing the way it suppose to be done he was at my hearing on time and was there until the end. I would to thank Mr. Micheal Jonathan Gross for the help and for winning my case. He will be recommened to family and friends.
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29 Nov, 2016 by Laura
He was very professional and talked me through all the steps in preparing for my hearing with the judge. Sat with me while I was talking with the judge and let me know how it was going. After the hearing, he briefed me on how I did and let me know that I was going to receive the benefits that I was asking for in the hearing. I received my full benefits. Then he set me up with another member of the Packard team to explain the process of receiving benefits and how Social Security works. He responded to my calls or email every time within a day and was very caring. I should have gone to them from the beginning. I would definitely go with the Packard Team again. Thank you Mike!!!
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08 Oct, 2018 by Veronica
Michael Archer took my case when no one else would. He contacted me the same day of me leaving messages or calling. He was was amazing at his job and was very knowledgeable. Thank you so much for what you have for my family Mr. Archer.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Mark
Michael is an outstanding Counselor at Law. Extremely knowledgeable/educated in the area of Social Security Law. Very professional, informative & personable. He spent countless hours preparing me for the hearing before the ALJ. I was extremely impressed by his presentation of the case & responses to the Judge. Mr. Archer comes highly recommended.
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14 Dec, 2017 by Craig
I was represented by Mr. Archer for my disability appeal hearing. Mr. Archer was very attentive to my needs, and answered any and all questions I had. He was prepared with information for my case, and I could tell he was really fighting for me.
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07 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Wayne Wright represented me in the back and did a good job they thought the insurance company for me and help me out to the whole process. Leann delagarza is a good lawyer
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05 Apr, 2019 by Marcie
I must say I was completely satisfied with Wayne Wright representation. They met with me soon after my accident at my home and explained everything to me about my case. They were very kind and caring and kept me updated throughout my case. They helped take care of my medical costs and put money in my pocket. Thank you Wayne Wright and to everyone who helped me along the way, you really delivered superior service!
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25 Mar, 2014 by Floydstenberg
A pickup ran a red light and hit me hard. I woke up in the hospital with a severe concussion. I couldn't walk or move my arm. My friend got me to call Wayne Wright and they came to the hospital right away. They were very professional and kept me up to date on everything. Wayne Wright got me a settlement to pay for all my medical bills and money for my pain and suffering. Wayne Wright really fought for me.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Jennifer
Brent was Amazing and made the whole process so much easier. He made sure he was 100% ready for my hearing. He explained to me in detail different scenarios that could happen & how he would go about each one. He's very easy to talk to and answers all your questions. After my hearing was over he called and explained to me what was said because it was all very confusing. If you need an attorney Brent is definitely the person I would suggest 100%.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Dave
Brent represented my SSI disability case as a consummate professional in this area of law. My case was settled in a timely manner with no issues. Brent took care of all necessary administrative and legal filings. I would recommend Brent in this area of law with the highest possible rating.
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15 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
He was very thorough. I never felt rushed. He took the time to understand my situation and made sure all my questions were answered. He is very competent and very honest which I really appreciated. I highly recommend him.
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24 Dec, 2014 by Barbara
He would always get my paperwork first and have it filled out and returned before I had to do anything. I would highly recommend him to anyone who was wanting to get their disability. And again Thank You Hector for the work you and your staff did on my case. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Lety
Ms. Maisel did what was almost the impossible for my husband. She was very detailed oriented and helped him with his disability claim. She was patient and her staff was excellent as well keeping us informed every step of the way.
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27 Jul, 2022 by Ben
After being passed around by a number of firms i finally came across Miss Maisel, who was the 1st attorney who took my case and spoke with me and made the effort to do what it took to get the job done. if you have a legitimate claim to file, do not hesitate to give her a call.
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26 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
She is the best Lawyer that Heard and Smith has. She knows the right questions to ask and won my case for me.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Carolyn
My husband and I contacted Ms. Packard for help probating my husband's brother's will. Allison went far beyond helping us not only with the probate but also helped us with re-locating our special-needs nephew in an extremely timely and proficient manner. She has been extremely professional and knowledgeable, and has consistently stayed in contact with us throughout the issues we had until they were concluded.
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05 Oct, 2017 by Victoria r.
Chris was very professional and knowledgeable, answering all my questions and concerns. He and his staff made sure to keep me informed with any and all updates. They also made the process easy and quick. I definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a great attorney and person.
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11 Jul, 2017 by Kathy
I retained Ms. Glidden at a significant growth point in my equine business, when I had need of legal advice regarding structure, forms review, policies, procedures and liability concerns. Her expert knowlege of the matters most critical to my business interests have been invaluable to say the least. I have truly appreciated her down to earth yet professional manner of communicating. Interpreting the difficult to understand legal elements of managing a growing business, was very important to me. After seeing the numerous benefits of having Ms. Glidden assist me, I can see that I should have hired her much sooner. I could have avoided some costly mistakes and spared myself some significant turmoil. There is nothing like the peace of mind I now enjoy knowing I can contact her for legal counsel whenever the need arises.
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31 Aug, 2020 by Loretta c. griffith
Ms.Tibbs did a great job in representing me in divorce, I highly recommended to other people whom, we're satisfied as well with her Professionalism .
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10 Aug, 2018 by Michael zull
No words can describe our appreciation for Veronica she feels like a member of our family. She is a warm caring person who genuinely cares about her clients. She handled my daughters divorce and she always kept her best interest a priority. We choose to go with Veronica after meeting with her for the initial consultation I knew she was the one we needed and you will to.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Michael s
Attorney Magoo was professional, knowledgeable, and very understanding during our legal process. She explained everything well, and helped us through our issues during the passing of our loved one. We appreciated all her hard work and understanding.
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24 Sep, 2020 by Erin
Rosiee is professional, compassionate and responsive. She was recommended to me, and I can't say enough good things about her.
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5.0
21 Reviews
4.7
180 Reviews
25 Oct, 2024 by Gary harmon
Very professional operation. Always ready to discuss issues to make sure the client fully understands what is needed. Strongly recommended for last will and testament.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Ashley posey
Mr. Schafer has been extremely helpful and I appreciate everything he has done to help me. He genuinely cares. Cannot recommend enough!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany campbell
Very dissatisfied with the services and I do not recommend. Communication is very poor, attorney does not follow-up with clients at the important deadlines that he sets which are critical to the case, the attorney did not follow-up with the rental company as promised either. He told us he had emailed the rental company as a follow-up during the process, however, once we fired him for poor service, and requested our records, we discovered that the emails he claimed to have sent to the rental company was never sent.
I have text and email confirmations for all of the above mentioned. My husband and I are now fighting a battle with a rental company that we shouldn’t have had to if the attorney would’ve stayed on top of things, communicated effectively with both parties and did his job instead of lying to us. 0 stars.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Gary harmon
Very professional operation. Always ready to discuss issues to make sure the client fully understands what is needed. Strongly recommended for last will and testament.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Ashley posey
Mr. Schafer has been extremely helpful and I appreciate everything he has done to help me. He genuinely cares. Cannot recommend enough!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany campbell
Very dissatisfied with the services and I do not recommend. Communication is very poor, attorney does not follow-up with clients at the important deadlines that he sets which are critical to the case, the attorney did not follow-up with the rental company as promised either. He told us he had emailed the rental company as a follow-up during the process, however, once we fired him for poor service, and requested our records, we discovered that the emails he claimed to have sent to the rental company was never sent.
I have text and email confirmations for all of the above mentioned. My husband and I are now fighting a battle with a rental company that we shouldn’t have had to if the attorney would’ve stayed on top of things, communicated effectively with both parties and did his job instead of lying to us. 0 stars.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Gary harmon
Very professional operation. Always ready to discuss issues to make sure the client fully understands what is needed. Strongly recommended for last will and testament.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Ashley posey
Mr. Schafer has been extremely helpful and I appreciate everything he has done to help me. He genuinely cares. Cannot recommend enough!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany campbell
Very dissatisfied with the services and I do not recommend. Communication is very poor, attorney does not follow-up with clients at the important deadlines that he sets which are critical to the case, the attorney did not follow-up with the rental company as promised either. He told us he had emailed the rental company as a follow-up during the process, however, once we fired him for poor service, and requested our records, we discovered that the emails he claimed to have sent to the rental company was never sent.
I have text and email confirmations for all of the above mentioned. My husband and I are now fighting a battle with a rental company that we shouldn’t have had to if the attorney would’ve stayed on top of things, communicated effectively with both parties and did his job instead of lying to us. 0 stars.
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13 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Heard & Smith were representing me in my disability case. After receiving a denial letter from my hearing I received word from H&S saying that they would no longer represent me, they gave no explanation.
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30 Jun, 2020 by Alfaire
From my consultation until my SSD approval, Heard & Smith has been hard working and very diligent with my case. They remained in contact with me the whole time. I never doubted that my outcome would be anything but positive. Thank you Heard & Smith for all that you do.
Sincerely, A. Shabazz
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27 Aug, 2019 by Dale
It's really frustrating knowing you have a valid claim, but the lawyer sometimes doesn't put a robust case together, for whatever reason; Atty. Heard and his staff came through and won my case; 4 years back pay that was due me the whole time! The entire staff was knowledgeable and easy to understand.
Thank you to everyone that was involved in my case!
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08 Apr, 2015 by Rand
in 1994 I was given Richards name and contact information.explaining my situation, and had signed a four-year contract with McKenna hospital in New Braunfels Texas. as a licensed physical therapist, I assisted all of the hospitals patients, on proper technique, nutrition, and was honest with everyone I treated. after explaining my situation with Richard, he basically trained me on what disabilities to look for, that were obvious health problems. over theP next 15 years I referred all of the patients that I felt we're entitled to receiving disability benefits.it was in 1999 what my pain level was off the charts.October the 30th 2013, I had my 14th the operation on my left knee. when I first met Peter Holmes, radio show ask the doctor, he said he couldn't believe that I was still walking. and define all the odds with my Medical history, and all the knee surgeries on my left knee. This was in 1993. Semi pro hockey team , the iguanas, as Peter became their team physician. I would speak to his patients and explaining how my knee replacement was my only alternative.after scoping my knee he told me afterwards that the replacement was inevitable. the most difficult surgery I've ever experienced. the pain was undescribable. claiming he wrote me up in the AMA Medical Journal , stating that I was probably the most severe athletic casualty he's treated during his career.
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10 Sep, 2013 by Cheryl
I was very anxious when first meeting Mr. Hasse. I had never used a lawyer before and so this was new. I was frustrated after being denied but after the court hearing was happy with the results. Thank you for your help.
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21 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I was in desperate need of help. Mr. Haase was very kind and he listened to what i had to say. This was so important to me cause I felt like my doctors have failed me and didnt care. Mr. Haase was very informative and told me exactly what rights i had and explained everything to me.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Jack dodge
I was involved in a Hit-and-Run accident from behind. My car was damaged and I sustained some injuries. My mother (who has used Douglas Dilley several times over the last 40 years) recommended I call the Dilley Law Firm. From day one, everyone that I dealt with, was always professional, courteous, and did not make me feel like I was just another number to them. I was always kept in the loop of where my case was throughout the whole process. Even when I had questions, they did not ever hesitate to respond. In the end my case was settled for more than I expected, even after all my medical bills, and other expenses were deducted, On many occasions I was speaking directly to Miguel Dilley. He was always very personable. I would not hesitate to hire them if another incident arose.I would also recommend them to anyone looking for a law firm, that is personable, professional, and willing to fight on your behalf.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Teresa mcalister
Great firm to work with on legal issues. Knowledgeable on the law! Always kept me informed through every strep of my case.
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07 Oct, 2023 by Glorimar camacho
Live the place, nice people!!
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10 May, 2017 by Melissa
Michael Packard was extremely patient while he helped with my car accident case, explaining everything in detail. He and his team and very thorough. I highly recommend this law firm for legal needs.
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14 Oct, 2015 by Frank
He was very agreeable and pleasant to work with. He understood what I was saying. I asked a lot of questions about Social Security and knew what he was talking about and gave me good advice. He understands the law well and talks to you in a way that is easy to understand.
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09 Apr, 2015 by Victor
I had been denied benefits prior to hiring Packard law firm. From day one they kept me informed about procedure and process. Michael Packard met with me and reassured me that the priority was me and my case which really made me feel like he took my case personal.
The day of tthe hearing he met with me prior and made sure I was comfortable and gave me positive thoughts going in. Throughout the hearing he was right by my side making sure the judge understood my case. I was granted full benefits with the hard work of Mike Packard he and his firm is great at what they do.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I sat down and with Mr Crane, He was very professional, did not feel my case was within the time frame. Though he did not deny I had a possible case. So he informed me like a doctor to get a second d opinion. I took that sound advice and now have an amazing attorney committed to the truth . I felt the information, caused the rejection not the truth or the merit of my case.
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19 Dec, 2019 by Billy
Mr. Crane was exceptionally thorough and professional during my case. I was referred to him by the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Texas. I highly recommend him to anyone who has experienced legal difficulties with his or her employer. Tom sets the bar with a standard of excellence.
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10 Nov, 2017 by Carmen
Mr. Crane is an excellent attorney. He was fair and honest throughout my dealings with him. I would recommend Mr. Crane as an attorney.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Frank saucedo
Great lawyer, very professional and reliable, he handled my case for years and never had reason to complain, great communication system about court appointments changes, strategies planning, excellence all the way!!
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15 Aug, 2023 by Mr. nobody
They don't go with their appointment, made me wait almost an hour
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20 Apr, 2023 by Lisa delong
16 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I had a Workman's comp case with Kelly Matthews. We won our hearing after my claim was denied by Zurich Ins. However, I have a contested case hearing in one week. I have left numerous messages for Kelly Matthews for 3 weeks she has not returned my calls. My Doctors office has been emailing regarding what information to send to Kelly Matthews to assist in the upcoming hearing and AGAIN she has failed to reply. I made my last phone call and advised her paralegal how dissatisfied I am with no communication and a huge upcoming hearing. Kelly Matthews send me a withdraw letter stating I have degraded her and her staff. So now I have no representation for my upcoming hearing in one week and she is still going to receive payments out of my workman's compensation!!! Beware of this attorney who will drop you but not your money when you need her the most!
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11 Dec, 2015 by John
We hired Kelly Matthews to work on behalf of our granddaughter. An appointment was made promptly and we were introduced to Kristen Hunter who became my granddaughter's attorney of record for what has turned out to be a very difficult Worker's Compensation case. Ms. Hunter has worked tirelessly and won a very difficult hearing in favor of our granddaughter. The situation is still fluid and this firm has met our legal needs and continues to do so.
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10 Dec, 2015 by Tina
I tried for over a year to handle my own claim. It was extremely trying and time consuming. Once I realized that surgery was my only option, I decided to reach out to an attorney to help me through the process.
I am so very glad that Ms. Matthews was recommended to me. I traveled over an hour to her office and it was very worth my time.
Ms. Matthews was always very attentive, professional and responsive. I am pleased to say that she just helped me finalize my case which ended on a positive note.
I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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03 Jan, 2018 by Cameron
Todd told me on multiple occasions that he was going to find out some information about my case and he would get back to me. He did not get back to me at all. His assistant Cassidy also said she was going to do some work and contact me and she never did. The law firm itself did not return my calls on two or three different occasions. Please don't go here.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Stephanie
I’m not sure why everyone else has had a negative experience. We filed ch 7 bankruptcy and everything went smoothly and very quickly. Every time I had a question Jane our paralegal was extremely helpful. I would definitely recommend Todd Malaise!
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15 Aug, 2017 by Cody
Just received denial letter from SSA for disability. Firm had an agent call me with a questionnaire and determined, without seeing the contents of the letter, that I had a "technical" denial, and stated I could not be helped.
Called the firm and possibly talked to a paralegal. Again refused to listen to the circumstances stated on the letter, which contained numerous inaccuracies. Also refused to consider I'm a 100% disabled veteran, concurrently rated "individually unemployable."
Ultimately was told I should read the requirements on the SSA website. Well, I did.
This law firm is only looking for the easy clients and has a poor sense of justice and fairness. Will not recommend this firm to my friends.
"Also in 2009, both houses of Congress introduced legislation known as the BRAVE Act1 that would certify veterans judged by the VA to have total disability (that is, having a combined rating of 100% or a rating of individual unemployability [IU]) as meeting the medical requirements of the disability programs administered by SSA. Essentially, a veteran with a rating of total disability would not have to undergo the medical portions of SSA's disability determination to be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits."
https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/ssb/v74n3/v74n3p1.html
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26 Sep, 2020 by José
Mr. Valdez has no business holding a Texas bar license to practice any kind of law whatsoever. I have submitted a formal complaint/grievance to the state bar. He was a court appointed lawyer for a case i had in county court 186 in S.A. He missed completely more than one court appointment. A judge during his absence asked the court clerks in a scheduled appointment "is this the same Jerry Valdez that always shows up late if at all ? ". The clerk simply nodded and said "yes your honor". That's to say he has a well established reputation for being tardy and even absent from scheduled court proceedings. Do not for any reason hire this man. He is a crook, a lier, and has no business practicing law in Texas or any other state for that matter. I will work tirelessly to have him disbarred as he is a detriment to legal community as a whole.
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30 May, 2018 by Anonymous
This guy lies, he's not a good lawyer at all. He will not work for you, he works for the courts. No return phone calls, no visits in jail to discuss my case. I only saw him the day of my trial for which as stated he did not fight for me.
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29 Oct, 2017 by Warren
Jerry told lied to me, about what would happen after a conviction, now i cannot drive or find a good job . when i try to contact him, he ignores and avoids my phone calls , and refuses to call me back. My life if now set back for years to come due to this lawyer.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Arlene 210-309-0437
Took my $1200.00...Hired her to help Me to get custody of my 3 year old grandson...I go to Court on 1-23-14...she called me and said she has health Issues and will not be practicing law anymore...but will Not refund my money....so I can hire another attorney...Amazing
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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:
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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.
