Dell Disability Lawyers Client Testimonials

I was very anxious and cautiously optimistic about getting back my disability benefits from Prudential. From my first call, Stephen explained the procedure in depth. When I had questions and concerns, they were handled promptly and professionally by both Stephen and his assistant Vanessa. I can’t express my thanks enough! This is such a relief! I can pay my bills now! It is shameful that insured people have to be subjected to this kind of trauma, just to get what they already paid for! Shame on you, Prudential!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Caring, professional, and efficient service.

What could we do to improve?
I will let you know when I think of it!

Rachel Alters is a very compassionate, professional and trustworthy attorney. She got my claim accepted expeditiously which has made this very stressful time in my professional and consequently my personal life less difficult. I am very grateful.

Having had several lung surgeries including a wedge resection, lobe removal and pleurodesis as well as MAC lung disease, I was diagnosed with stage vi (end stage) COPD in October 2012. With my lung function at 23% it was becoming very difficult to manage my daily life let alone continue working in my management role at a large healthcare company. After meeting with my primary physician and my pulmonologist, it was agreed that I should stop working and submit a claim for disability. I was 52 at the time. My short term disability plan with Mutual of Omaha paid my claim for 3 months at which time it was converted to my long term disability plan with no issues. I continued to collect my LTD benefit from February 2013 until November 20th 2014 when I received a letter saying I could return to my previous position and there was nothing in my medical records to indicate disability. I was shocked to say the least, as my condition is chronic and progressive and in fact my condition had continued to decline. I didn’t know what to do and knew I did not have the knowledge or experience to appeal their decision. I was very afraid as we depended on this income to pay our bills, that’s why I held the policy for many years, to protect my family. I want to add that I applied for and was approved for Social Security disability benefits shortly after diagnosis.

I immediately started to search for attorneys that handle disability claims and found literally hundreds that handled SSDI claims, but few that handled employer/private policies. I found Dell & Schaefer and filled out their quick online form and almost immediately received a reply from Gregory Dell (yes, an actual person responded!) who let me know that he asked Rachel Alters to call me. I don’t think it was more than a half hour before I received a call from her. I immediately felt a sense of relief as she explained the process and what she would be doing for me.

From that day forward, I have been met with OUTSTANDING customer service from Rachel Alters and Kathleen Bordes. Any time I reached out with questions or concerns they were very responsive and always left me feeling satisfied that I had the best in my corner. The process took many months and a lot of leg work on Rachel and Kathleen’s part. When I was finally sent a draft of the appeal, I completely understood why it takes so long. The level of detail was unbelievable. I actually feel like I better understand my disease after reading it! The appeal was filed timely and my denial was overturned very quickly. When I learned it was overturned, I have to admit I had tears in my eyes. I want to add, that even if the appeal didn’t have the positive outcome that it did, I would feel exactly the same about the exceptional job done on my case. I’m not sure I can ever truly express how grateful I am, and how blessed I feel to have found Dell & Schaefer and especially Rachel and Kathleen!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Outstanding customer service and attention to detail.

What could we do to improve?
Nothing.

If you have a disability insurance situation, you need a pro like Steven Dell from the start to guide, support, and battle the insurance company for you. Don’t try to take on the powerful insurance companies on your own as they have all the tactics in place to try to delay and deny your claim, no matter how legitimate. If you try to do the claim on your own, you will be at a disadvantage. Our experience with Steven Dell was exceptional. I was diagnosed with severe cardiac disease. As a result, my cardiologist and other doctors told me that I needed to cease working immediately or risk a severe heart attack or death. Unfortunately the disability insurance company did not see it that way and tried to delay and dismiss the seriousness of my illness and attempted to set up a denial.

The insurance company is on your side as long as you are paying your premiums and do not file a claim. I found out that the insurance company will try to do all that they can to deny paying a claim. Fortunately Steven Dell was on our side from the start and helped us get through this stressful and lengthly process of filing a disability claim. Steven Dell advised and guided us through each step of the way and on many instances had to go head-on with the insurance carrier. The amount of paperwork in filing a claim can be substantial. Mr. Dell’s professional staff (especially Merlin) was efficient in handling everything to ensure that all the necessary paperwork was in order and submitted to the insurance company. I owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. Dell, he was a Godsend, and we were able to win the case. If you have a disability situation you need a pro like Mr. Dell from the start if you want a successful outcome. Our lives are better now because of Steven Dell ~ Thank you Steven!

I am very pleased that Mr. Gavidia was able to get my husbands disability insurance with Cigna re-instated. It took time, due to Cigna & the games they play. It is also VERY reassuring that if (& probably when) Cigna denies his disability status again, Dell & Schaefer will be there immediately to speak for us. Neither my husband nor I have the ability to fight Cigna by ourselves, we feel very fortunate that Mr. Cesar Gavidia did it for us.

Part of the reason we pursued this matter is the principle involved here, they had no reason to cancel his disability other than Cigna is a very money greedy company. It is a extremely rewarding feeling knowing that Cigna did not get by with this in our case. I wish that was the case for everyone.

If you are in the same situation as we were, please give this company a call & find out your options.

On a personal note – Thank You Cesar!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
They were honest about everything involved. Also we got the results we needed, & could not fight ourselves.

I worked with Steve Dell. I had two disability policies and both claims went as smoothly as possible. The key? Adequate preparation by the disability attorney. Believe me, I am an educated man, but unless one has experience in the field, you will make mistakes on your own (just like anything else in life). Some of these mistakes could cost you your claim. Trust me, hiring a disability attorney will be one of the wisest investments you will make.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
It was a smooth process. Very complete package. So complete, the insurance companies could not even find a reason to ask for any more documents. No medical exams by either company. Only one post-approval interview (unusual in itself).

What could we do to improve?
I don’t see any reason to improve.

Stephen is an incredible attorney. He helped me tremendously and if I did not retain his services and expertise, I would have gotten a big fat zero. My case was challenging because I did not hire Stephen at the outset of the process and I regret that immensely. Both Stephen and Kathleen were communicative, responsive, organized and I really felt that they cared about me and my case. If I ever had questions or concerns they were addressed right away in a courteous and professional manner. Stephen was very strategic in his thinking and laid out a solid plan with regard to my case. This saved me excessive expense and also offered thoughtful, solid guidance that a client such as myself needed.

If you think you have a case – do not hesitate – do not work with other attorneys before speaking with Stephen Jessup at Dell & Schaefer. He is worth his weight in gold!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
This firm is professional, they really care, their attorneys and staff are brilliant, strategic and extremely helpful. If they feel you have a viable case, they’ll take it and make it happen for you as they did me.

What could we do to improve?
Excellent firm!

My experience with Dell & Schaefer was wonderful. I don’t think that my disability would have been reinstated if it hadn’t been for this firm.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
The attorney that handled my case was very nice and even though I called a lot he still answered my calls and questions.

What could we do to improve?
Nothing.

Working with Stephen and Greg was a wonderful experience. I was initially very hesitant to speak with a lawyer, but Stephen and Greg made the entire process easy and with as little intrusion into my daily life. They were quite reassuring and made sure that I was fully informed about the process and how things would play out. I can’t imagine a better outcome.

Before my disability, I was an attorney with a successful energy and telecom practice. I know what it means to provide quality legal service: it entails expertise in the area(s) of law in which the lawyer practices; zealous advocacy on behalf the client, subject always to a professional tone and demeanor; objectivity and considered judgment; responsiveness in real-time; and last but not least, a great staff.

Steven Dell and his firm have demonstrated all of these qualities. They’ve been with me since the beginning, and nothing they have done has ever caused me concern. Quite the opposite. On my behalf, they take care of all communications with the disability insurance carrier and provide me such other expert advice as I have needed over what is now a five-year period. When you no longer have good health, I have found it to be a great relief to have them deal with the insurance company and to know I can rely on their wise counsel.

I also appreciate the firm’s technical sophistication. We communicate chiefly by email, which is not only efficient but less intrusive. When I’m having a particularly bad health day, I can always get to their emails after the storm has passed.

Anyone with claim with their disability insurance carrier would do well to hire Steven and his firm.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
See above.

What could we do to improve?
Nothing.

Right from the start, Attorney Steven Dell was caring, patient and straightforward. My case was complex, both in terms of my medical condition and the carriers involved, and Steven set my expectations appropriately, and then worked tenaciously to secure an outcome that far exceeded those expectations.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Professionalism, integrity and breadth of knowledge are the standout hallmarks of Dell & Schaefer. But to me, it was Steven’s willingness to listen to and respect my thoughts and opinions, and work with me as a partner, that truly sets them apart from the competition.

What could we do to improve?
Through my experience with Dell & Schaefer, I cannot think of a single opportunity for improvement.

I first heard of Dell & Schaefer through the internet. Their reviews were very solid. I also asked several people who had experience with disability claims about who they might recommend. Greg Dell kept coming up. Finally I asked my financial advising firm in Dallas who they knew and got the name Greg Dell. So I felt pretty good with recommendations from all over the country. I spoke with Greg on the phone and he was very informative and felt he could help me with my case. He walked me through what documentation was required and what to expect from his fees and time and what to expect from the insurance company.

The process was difficult to go through and at times he had to act more as a psychologist than a lawyer with me as the insurance company fights these types of claims formidably. He handled the claim extremely well and I recommend his services highly. He appears to be well known in the insurance industry and that helps as they know he is thorough and tough.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Tough thorough lawyer that understands the process and will head off problems before they become an issue. Honest and upfront about billing. Did not receive any surprises. Very quick to respond to issues and communicates well with clients.

Working with Dell & Schaefer overall was a very pleasant experience. Once I contacted the firm and agreed to representation all of my worries and concerns were handled by the firm. I did not have to deal with the incompetent and deceitful tactics of my policy holders any longer. Dell & Schaefer handled everything; contacting my physicians and putting together all necessary documentation to appeal my denial. I was able to than concentrate on my health issues.

There was minimal contact between Dell & Schaefer and myself. I placed the case in their hands and waited patiently for them to fight for me. Within weeks of submitting my appeal the insurance carrier reversed their decision. Everyone at Dell & Schaefer are extremely professional and compassionate. Whenever I had questions and or concerns they always responded promptly, professionally and compassionately. I am very thankful I turned to Dell & Schaefer in my hour of distress and frustration. I will continue to retain their services to ensure my rightful benefits.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I would recommend the Attorneys at Dell & Schaefer because they are professional, fair, compassionate and successful.

Too many times people complain about bad service, but I like to make sure good service gets recognized!

Rachel Alters and Kathleen Bordes have been very kind and patient with me through my lawsuit process. I have had questions understanding the how it works and they have never made me feel rushed or unimportant. Actually, it’s been the exact opposite! In the midst of dealing with the stress of my own serious health issues and recently my father being diagnosed with stage four cancer, it’s been a relief having Rachel and Kathleen on my team. They are a pleasure to work with! I will definitely be recommending your office to others.

My employer offered both Short Term Disability and Long Term Disability insurance as optional benefits among others. The premiums were significant, but since they could be payroll deducted I felt they could be reasonably managed and the security of continued income in the event of a medical disability was well worth the investment. As with the purchase of a first aid kit, most would prefer never having to use it.

I have been very fortunate to have had few illnesses or injuries throughout my life and more specifically my 45 year career as a healthcare professional. It wasn’t until early in 2012 that I was diagnosed with a chronic, progressive disease of the eye. Symptoms were minimal at that time, though regular visits to a retinal specialist, including regular therapy by ocular injection, were necessary to slow its progression, the symptoms did not appreciably interfere with my work. In spite of my treatments the condition continued to progress. In early 2014 the symptoms began to interfere dramatically with my day to day duties. My job required significant computer use and the reading of copious amounts of medical documentation. It became evident to me that I could no longer meet the expectation of my management and clinical position without working frighteningly long hours and enduring the relentless eye strain and other symptoms related to the illness.

Though I had always planned for eventual retirement from my full-time position, like most professionals I had hoped to be able to continue to practice my profession on a part-time basis throughout my retirement as long as I remained competent and able. That was not to be. Thankfully, I had the foresight to elect the disability benefit options offered by my company and have the premiums payroll deducted for many years. I notified my supervisor and HR representative that I had to stop working due to my condition and proceed with the disability application process.

All went very well and after using up my accrued vacation and sick time, my short-term disability benefits commenced. Since my condition is progressive and incurable I felt secure in knowing that once my short-term benefits were exhausted my benefits would continue under the long-term policy. However, much to my surprise, after receiving about a month of benefits I received notification from the insurance company that a decision had been made to terminate my benefits due to lack of objective medical evidence to support my claim, though significant documentation had been provided by my retinal specialist.

I was bewildered and unsure of how to proceed with an appeal of that decision. Since I had 180 days to do so, I decided to research the matter thoroughly. In spite of my being a veteran healthcare professional everything I had been reading on the subject cautioned about attempting to proceed with an appeal on my own. Legal representation was highly recommended.

I then began a review of local attorneys, hoping to find one that provided enough documentation on their website that indicated experience with non-social security disability related cases. I was also interested in seeing evidence of some experience with disability cases related to diseases of the eye and resultant vision impairment. I was unsuccessful.

So I expanded my search to include national law firms. It was then that I discovered Dell Disability Lawyers. After thoroughly reviewing their website, watching many of the video discussions, noting experience with vision related cases, particular documentation related to the insurance company that handled and then eventually denied my benefits, and reading a significant number of testimonials, I decided to request a free consultation as advertised. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

After that consultation, I was very confident that I was in very skilled hands which alone reduced my anxiety level immensely. Attorney Alexander Palamara and his Legal Assistant, Kathleen Bordes, immediately began managing my case, their professional expertise clearly evident.

They worked closely with my retinal specialist, my optometrist and the insurance company in compiling the medical documentation necessary for a successful appeal in an amazingly short period of time, keeping me fully informed all along the way. Shortly after being notified by the insurance company that my benefits would be reinstated and paid through the full term of my short-term policy I received a lump-sum payment.

Once the short-term disability appeal was successfully completed, Alex and Kathy immediately addressed the long-term policy benefits. Again in a remarkably short period of time I was granted those benefits, receiving a lump-sum payment for benefits to date and will receive a payment monthly going forward per the terms of my LTD policy.

I am extremely pleased with how my case was handled and the very favorable outcome. Alex and Kathy were a delight to work with and extremely professional in every way. Incidentally, the fee I paid to Dell and Schaefer for their incredible representation was very reasonable and very well earned.

I highly recommend the services of Dell Disability Lawyers to anyone who may find themselves in a similar disability-related situation.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
As stated above, Dell Disability Lawyers, were clearly experienced in handling cases such as mine. Once I was on board with them, their professionalism, courtesy, understanding, expertise, efficiency and adherence to timeliness was all well noted Most of all, Alex and Kathy truly cared about me and my overall wellbeing with regard to this case. I could not have asked for more from a law firm and it’s staff.

What could we do to improve?
I am certain that there isn’t a company or individual that could not improve in some way. However, in the time I’ve spent with this firm to date I can not think of a single example. My experience to date can be described as exceeding expectations. Thank you for that.

After collecting LTD from Prudential for about 16 months, I was cut off without warning. At the time of being cut-off, I was recovering from my 4th back surgery. I had numerous, bulging disks, nerves that were severely impinged, diskectomy from C2-C7, and active arthritis and degenerative disk disease throughout my spine. While being out of work, I also developed pulmonary fibrosis as well as COPD and have a difficult time breathing. I went through numerous sessions of physical therapy, Spinal Cortisone Injections, Trigger Point Injections, a Neurostimulator Implant, as well as a battery of strong narcotics to control the pain.

I was declared totally and permanently disabled by my neurosurgeon as well as being awarded Social Security Disability. There was no way I could work any job, let alone my previous job. After a brief talk with Alex Palamara, Dell & Schaefer offered to take my case. I was amazed at the level of personal and medical detail Alex knew about my case. Alex was able to assemble a solid appeal. I was turned down for LTD again! Alex fought even harder! After the second appeal, we were able to make Prudential “understand” my medical condition and how it affects my ability to perform work. I feel very comfortable knowing Alex and Dell & Schaefer are in my corner going forward!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Alex had a “never say die” attitude throughout! Dell & Schaefer were able to put together an indisputable appeal utilizing the many resources available to the firm including Medical Doctors. They have proven to me that they are in my corner everyday going forward! Worth every penny! Rates were very comparable to my local attorneys. It’s a no-brainer!

My experience working with Dell & Schaefer exceeded my expectations. This firm treated me professionally and help me resolve my case. I had peace of mind working with this firm because they listened to my cased and took care of me.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I would recommend Dell Disability Lawyers to anyone that is going through a disability insurance appeal. Alex Palamara listened to me and got all my information correctly and helped me win my case. I was going through a bad faith by my disability insurance but with the help of Alex and my medical records I was able to reinstate my insurance claim. I am very happy and have peace of mind knowing that these insurance companies cant just cancel me just because they feel like it.

What could we do to improve?
Nothing! Customer service was great and appeal was submitted at timely matter.

My experience of dealing with The Hartford for my company LTD benefit was a nightmare from the start. Our company chose an “any occupation” clause from day 1 of disability leaving the door open to almost automatic decline. Of course, that is what happened.

I researched on the internet for days for a firm that knew ERISA Disability Laws and specialized in them. After an email to Dell Disability Lawyers, I received a call from an attorney the same day. After I described my occupation, he said “We have another attorney that I work with here who has helped many others in your occupation and I think he is better prepared than I to get you this benefit”. He about blew me away-sending business AWAY for MY sake? I knew, right then, that my choice of Dell Disability Lawyers was the correct one.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
My Attorney, Steve Jessup, made suggestions and left the choices up to me-but obviously wise and proven effective means to solve a very difficult case with one of the most “difficult” companies in the marketplace.

What could we do to improve?
Honestly, right now I just want to give Steve and his assistant, Vanessa, a hug and a handshake – so my suggestion is that you send them to Michigan! Just joking, of course. The biggest help was the prompt reply to emails and phone calls-even when there was no answer yet, just to know you know. That was a big “peace of mind”.

Dell & Schaefer saved my life. After receiving disability payments from CIGNA for 10 years, CIGNA decided that their initial determination had been in error. This was based on an evaluation of the file – with no personal interview of any kind – from a psychiatrist who new less about bipolar disease than I do.

With a wife and four children to provide for, I was distraught. Dell & Schaefer took charge of the mater. Although no lawyer can guarantee an outcome, as a former attorney I was very impressed with their professionalism and efficiency. On a personal level, they were very reassuring. They understood the embarrassment that comes from disclosing a mental disease, and dealt with me with courtesy and encouragement.

We prevailed over CIGNA, and I continued to have financial security until my benefits were paid in full.

I would recommend Dell & Schaefer, without reservation, to anyone who has to go up against the insurance giants.

After being denied initially, I searched our local area for an attorney who specialized in disability claims and found none. I spoke to a couple law firms that said they had “experts” in ERISA claims but after talking with them I determined they were no experts. I did a search on the internet and found Dell & Schaefer (Thank God.) After one phone call with Steve Jessup I knew that I had the attorney I was looking for. He had the “backbone” to stand up to the insurance company and was not the least bit afraid of going toe to toe with them. We won our appeal and have hired Steve to continue to represent me for help with the benefit distribution process. I highly recommend Steve and his staff.