Expert Tips for Choosing a Long-Term Disability Lawyer – Guest Post

Long-term disabilities are defined as any injury or illness that causes a person to be unable to work for an extended period of time. This period of time could last anywhere from a few years to longer.

The purpose of long-term disability insurance is to pay policyholders a portion of their original income, ensuring they do not go without an income for the length of their long-term disability.

Disabilities lawyers have an extensive network of medical experts who can provide the necessary understanding and evidence to support long-term disability claims. With these resources and their knowledge of the legal system, long-term disability lawyers help ensure your rights are protected. The ultimate goal is to get as fair a settlement as possible from the insurance company.

Understanding Long-Term Disability Benefits

The purpose of long-term disability benefits is to provide income replacement for individuals who meet the requirements. Each policy varies; however, most benefits are paid on a monthly basis up to a predetermined maximum amount.

There is typically more than one type of long-term disability benefit available. After an incident, your employer may offer long-term disability benefits through a group plan, or you may choose to receive coverage through a private policy of your own.

If either of these options are not possible, other benefits include:

• Canada Pension Plan Disability
• Workers’ compensation
• Ontario Disability Support Program
• Disability Tax Credit

Depending on the extent of your benefits plan, coverage may be provided for up to two years if you’re unable to return to work. However, once that initial period is over, eligibility for monthly benefits may only apply to those who qualify as totally disabled. This refers to anyone who is permanently unable to return to work of any kind.

Evaluating the Lawyer’s Experience and Expertise

Specialization

In order to make a successful disability claim, there are several complicated technicalities and time limitations involved. Hiring a lawyer with the necessary expertise in the field of long-term disability can help ensure you receive the maximum benefit possible.

Experienced disability lawyers know how to:

• Meet the complex requirements to get your claim approved.
• Win an appeal if your claim for long-term disability benefits is denied.
• Protect your legal rights.
• Leverage pre-existing relationships with insurance companies.

Localization

Hiring a long-term disability lawyer who practices in your jurisdiction is crucial because they will have an established reputation with insurance companies in the area. Pre-existing credibility goes a long way in acquiring the necessary benefits for a long-term disability. In addition, choosing a nearby firm ensures access to local medical experts who can help provide evidence on your behalf.

Payments

When choosing a long-term disability lawyer, it’s important to work with someone who understands the financial strain you are under. Once hired, different lawyers often offer different fee arrangements based on the services provided. These can include: by the hour, a fixed fee, or on a contingency basis.

Research Potential Lawyers

Ask for Recommendations

Asking your network for recommendations can be a great way to find a reliable and expert lawyer. You may also want to consider searching online groups or social media channels to find a local long-term disability lawyer who can assist you.

However, you don’t want to make your decision solely based on personal recommendations. It’s important to still research the lawyer’s background, along with their firm and ratings.

Read Online Client Reviews

Online client reviews are a good resource for learning both positive and negative feedback about a lawyer before hiring them. Reading peer reviews, client reviews, as well as attorney and firm overviews can help you make an informed decision.

Remember not to take this information at face value, as reviews do not always give a complete assessment of the law office’s background or competence to handle your case.

Meet With Prospective Lawyers

Completing an initial consultation with prospective lawyers allows you to meet them in person and determine how qualified they are to take on your case. Most law offices offer free consultations where potential clients can ask questions and gather information about future compatibility.

Some questions to consider asking during this stage are:

• Inquiring about their experience with disability cases.
• Ask how long they have been practicing law.
• Ensuring they have licenses to practice in your province, then asking about special certifications and awards.
• Inquiring about their fees and if you need to sign a written representation and payment agreement.
• Find out what percentage of their cases deal with disability law.
• Establishing that the attorney agrees on communication preferences.
• Asking about their availability should you need to contact them.
• Asking how long they have practiced in your jurisdiction, and whether they know the administrative law judges who preside over the hearings of disability cases.
• Requesting testimonials and references from past clients. Many will be happy to provide this information for you.

Analyze Their Past Case Results

When hiring a long-term disability lawyer, you want to ensure there will be positive results. Look for a disability insurance lawyer with a proven track record who has experience handling long-term disability claims similar to your specific case.

Factors to inquire about include:

• Experience in the given field
• Types of cases they have handled
• The outcomes they have achieved
• Demonstrated capacity to effectively represent clients
• Ability to secure positive results

Having the ability to handle the intricacies of disability insurance claims is essential in guaranteeing a successful outcome.

Consider Legal Fees and Payment Arrangements

Many long-term disability lawyers offer a contingency fee retainer agreement, which states that you do not pay any fees unless your case is solved or turns out in your favour.

Typically, these agreements outline that the lawyer receives a certain percentage of the total amount you get. Fee structures may vary based on whether the insurance firm starts or resumes making benefit payments versus final and/or full settlements.

Consider the Lawyer’s Caseload and Availability

Before settling on a long-term disability lawyer, take time to consider your interactions with them and their office staff. You will be spending a significant amount of time dealing with these professional teams, so it’s crucial to have a strong working relationship.

It is a major red flag if the lawyer becomes unresponsive or is inaccessible to you within a reasonable timeline. Effective communication is essential to ensuring your needs are met and your case is handled properly.

How to Choose a Long-Term Disability Lawyer

Regardless of where you are in the process, hiring a long-term disability lawyer is beneficial to getting the best results. Finding someone who can explain the process, outline the available options, and discuss expectations during the claim will alleviate unnecessary stress. Be sure to partner with a lawyer who understands your specific needs and has the legal expertise to help win even the most difficult claims.