Dell Disability Lawyers Client Testimonials

I had a very good experience. Rachel and Danielle were incredibly professional. They gave me a clear understanding of the process and timelines. I feel they are there fighting for me everyday. The process overall was very simple and enabled me to focus on my illness.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I have two big reasons I would recommend them. One, They are available for my questions and concerns. I get a response quickly and honestly. Second, no matter how worried I got, they never made me feel alone. I always know I have someone in the battle with me.

This was a very stressful time in my life. The disability company to whom my employer and I had paid premiums to for 30 years and who had paid me disability benefits for the past 12 years had closed my case and denied my appeal. I wasn’t sure what to do.

Following in depth research, endless phone calls and phone interviews of potential representation, I chose Dell & Schaefer to represent me. I am very happy I made that decision.

Rachel and Sonia at Dell & Schaefer listened to my concerns and reasons for wanting to appeal my claim. They requested my personal statements and files from the disability company for their review. I felt they always kept me updated as things progressed and requested additional info when necessary.

This is not a quick nor easy ordeal to have to go through. However, having Rachel and Dell & Schaefer behind me, I felt I had the best representation possible on my side.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
They explained my options clearly and provided honest feedback. They didn’t make promises that sounded too good to be true. Their communication was open, timely and made me confident that I was in good hands.

My experience with Dell & Schaefer, especially attorney Cesar Gavidia and his staff was excellent. I contacted Dell & Schaefer when I needed help as my disability insurance carrier terminated my benefits at the 2 year mark of my disability. I spent about 2 months putting together what I thought may be a decent appeal of that decision. However, the further I got into the workings and gaining some understanding of how the appeals worked under ERISA, I realized there was a lot at risk and only had one shot at it. I sought advice from an immediate family member who is also an attorney and was advised “get a firm that specializes in this type of work, then get the best”. Hence my decision to chose Dell & Schaefer.

Upon acceptance of my case, I felt that I was the center of attention for Attorney Gavidia. I had already used up 1/3 of the 180 days allotted to file the appeal working on my own so we were in a bit of a time crunch. Hundreds of pages of medical records the detail of the termination of benefits, my disability policy and several other different documents were delivered to attorney Gavidia. In short order those documents were reviewed and our strategy of appeal was discussed and developed. Necessary appointments and evaluations were coordinated and our appeal was submitted before the 180 days had expired. At the 45 day mark my insurer requested a 45 day extension on the decision. I was advised by Mr Gavidia’s assistant Michal who reassured me that this happens in most appeals. At the 90 day mark we received a favorable decision on the appeal, benefits were reinstated and back pay was awarded, but the story was not over.

After the initial termination of benefits by my insurer, I was alienated and expressed my desire with attorney Gavidia to try and find an amicable separation for all parties. Attorney Gavidia tactfully used some facts and disputes of the initial claim to open conversation with the insurer’s attorneys. He developed a dialog proposing, although I remain totally disabled as defined by my plan, a lump sum buy out of my future monthly disability benefits. Attorney Gavidia was successful in reaching an agreement that was acceptable to all parties and made sure that I had the final say on acceptance or not.

Thus, working with Dell & Schaefer I had my benefits, which had been terminated, restored, received back-pay for benefits that were withheld and missed, and successfully and satisfactorily “divorced” from my insurance provider in the form of a lump sum buy-out of my future disability benefits.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I would recommend Dell Disability Lawyers for the following reasons:
– They get the desired results!
– They have the resources and expertise to handle complex cases.
– They strive to understand the clients situation and desires.
– They made me feel that I was the #1 priority and client.
– They were very responsive to telephone and email inquiries.

I chose Dell & Schaefer as I searched for “the best” I could find in this area or expertise. I was not disappointed. If I were starting over again today my choice would remain Dell & Schaefer.

I was fortunate enough to have Rachel Alters handle my LTD appeal in 2014. I took 180 days and when all was said and done it was 266 pages long! The detail was amazing and my denial was immediately overturned. I strongly suggest that an individual doesn’t go it alone in this process. I think the other great advantage to having her handle it is I can reach out to her anytime I have any issues or questions with the insurance company and she deals directly with them.

I recently had an issue where they were not waiving my premium for the life insurance I ported when I had to stop working. Rachel not only got my premiums waived going forward, she got me a refund of all my premiums going back several years. One of the smartest things I’ve done was to contact Dell & Schaefer when my LTD was denied.

I contact Dell & Schaefer regarding my claim with Liberty Mutual. I was out on disability for 11 years and was helped to get back on claim. It was nice to have their guidance helping me all the way especially when Liberty did not send all records and delayed the date. Everyone responded quickly and we got the claim resolved on the first round. Thank you!

I had a very positive experience with attorney Steve Jessup and his assistant Vanessa Arriaga. They were professional, patient and prompt with my case and always followed up on emails and phone calls. I felt informed and in charge of the decisions made and ultimately we had a very good outcome.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
This law firm certainly understands the disability world and knows how to get results. I felt very well represented and was thrilled to no longer have to personally deal with the disability insurance company. I had a very good line of communication with my attorney Steve Jessup. He does a great job keeping a client informed and reassured and everything he told me ended up being right on the money. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this law firm.

What could we do to improve?
Not much! My outcome was very positive.

Very professional and competent attorney. Mr. Palamara was able to win my appeal for my long term disability benefits in what I consider a very short period of time. I will enjoy working with him with any reviews I may have in the future. Having him handle my claim has taken a huge amount of stress off of me. I would also like to thank his staff. They were great to work with.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Very competent and professional.

What could we do to improve?
I really cannot think of any improvements. It has been a very good experience.

As with anyone who finds themselves empty handed and lost as it becomes apparent long term disability is their only means for income and support for their family, the web searches become unbelievably daunting on what firm could properly represent you and your case. It was extremely important to me I found a firm who had not only won against my private LTD policy, but had also won cases concerning my disease and the extraordinary challenges that accompany it. Dell & Schaefer fit those requirements on paper, and only affirmed through the roof they were the law firm for me.

They are some of the most compassionate individuals I could have ever had the chance to work with, and from day 1 to the end, 14 months later they always treated me, just as me. I wasn’t a disability case, or a chronically ill patient, but someone who should feel and be empowered to fight for what I am rightfully owed. Their experience fighting cases shows, and I never once questioned hiring an attorney versus fighting the appeals myself. I would recommend Dell & Schaefer without hesitation to anyone I know.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I would recommend Dell Disability Lawyers because of their breadth of cases won, and for differing workers comp issues, and disabilities. There is very little if anything this law firm can’t handle, and if they couldn’t, I know they would be the first to be honest and refer someone to the absolute best. The entire staff is extremely professionalism and extraordinarily responsive. All of that you can find in time at another firm, but you can’t find how Dell Disability Lawyers makes you feel, like the person you were before disability, and through disability – we are so much more than the sum of our claim, and every day the staff rests their hat to keep that character instilled in all they do.

What could we do to improve?
I can not think of much you could do to improve. I did work a lot with my paralegal, and continually asked her to call me by my first name, as if anything I wanted to build a connection with her. Although that didn’t happen, I do nonetheless (regardless of this is policy or not) appreciate her professionalism during my entire case. Only thing I would improve would be me living closer to thank each of you in person.

I have MS and from the first interview, Rachel always kept me informed about my chances of getting LTD. She understood my claim, answered any questions and represented me at any meetings I had with MetLife so I felt comfortable and at ease. Sonia was also on top of my claim and her correspondence was clear and understandable.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I worked for Kaiser Permanente and had a group policy with MetLife. These are two very large organizations so I got Dell & Schaefer involved right from the beginning so my experience went smooth.

What could we do to improve?
There is nothing I can think of.

I had an excellent experience working with the team at Dell & Schaefer. Ms Rachel Alters & her assistant Sonia Nogueira kept me updated on the status of my appeal on a regular basis & provided same day responses to my email inquiries, often calling to explain certain details that may have been too overwhelming otherwise. They were respectful, professional & extremely patient with me. Rachel was very clear & confident in our conversations & effective in communications with my physicians during the course of documenting my condition.

My case involved a 10-year disability income stream that was suddenly & unexpectedly terminated. The financial situation it created & future uncertainty left me very stressed, so having such an experienced professional representing me was a huge comfort. I am very pleased & grateful that Ms Alters won my appeal. I feel as if a huge weight has been lifted!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
I found Dell & Schaefer online after unsuccessful attempts to find a local attorney that was familiar with ERISA disability plans & qualified to get terminated benefits reinstated. My situation was unique in the fact that I had already been receiving LTD benefits for almost 10 years, but was suddenly being told by the insurance company that my diagnosis no longer qualified for coverage. When I found the Dell & Schaefer site I watched a few videos, read a few articles & KNEW that if anyone had a chance at getting my LTD benefits back, it was them. I called a number on the website & the person who answered “got it” & understood that my sudden termination of benefits deserved a second look. They made some notes, took my name & number. I was amazed to find a missed call & voice mail received from Rachel Alters that day / evening. She tells you what you need to hear, even if it is not necessarily what you want to hear at the time. Rachel is direct, knowledgeable & compassionate. In my case, there was very sensitive material in my medical files, however it did not feel awkward for Rachel & her assistant Sonia (Nogueira) to have that information. They did not judge my neurological limitations or exasperated stress level. They took all of my concerns seriously & did not condescend… And most importantly of all, WE WON!

What could we do to improve?
Nothing… I am waiting for your accounting department to process my backpay direct deposit. Once that is complete & monthly deposits are set-up, the process will be full circle & I will be completely satisfied. Thank you so much for agreeing to take my case & providing such effective representation!

I would have never received a penny if I did not seek the help of Dell & Schaefer Law Firm. I was not able to get The Hartford Insurance Company to pay me no matter what I did. I had paid into the system which was denying me the benefits when I needed them the most! I was sick, recovering from chemotherapy and was told by my doctors not to return to work until my lab values were within the normal range. Trust me I wanted to get better! Finally, with the consistent help of attorney, Stephen Jessup, we won the case and I received payments.

I am now well and not in need of long term disability. This is a situation where the insurance company denied me until a law firm was there to back me up. When this firm says they will do whatever it takes they mean it. I highly recommend Stephen Jessup. I am thankful for the ability of this legal team to fight for our rights.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Very friendly, professional. Answers email and phone calls in a timely manner. Understands the insurance system which denies us.

I reached out to Dell Disability Lawyers because my ongoing disability claim was being closed, my 3 appeals were unsuccessful. Steve was extremely professional and empathetic to my situation. He did a lot of work & won the appeal with New York Life, got the checks coming including all past payments. The care and prompt handling of my claim didn’t stop there. Steve and his assistant Sonia were always ready to answer questions & concerns promptly and professionally. They genuinely cared and were interested in how I was doing.

After a year Steve negotiated a buyout settlement on my claim. I couldn’t be happier with his handling of the entire process. Steve and Sonia have truly made my life easier, I know I couldn’t have won my case alone. I can genuinely say I will miss them, their caring & kind words of reassurance. They always put my best interests first and foremost. I give them & the firm my highest recommendation. I would not hesitate to tell anyone who needs an attorney to use them.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
All of the staff that I’ve had the pleasure of working with have been very professional, prompt and friendly. From answering the phone to promptly processing my monthly payments, every single person has been excellent. The fees are very reasonable especially considering the level of value of service for the money. This firm is worth every penny.

What could we do to improve?
I honestly can’t think of anything you can do to improve.

I’ve been very pleased with the work of Dell & Schaefer in connection with my private insurance disability claims. After the initial rejection of my claim by the insurer, I engaged Dell & Schaefer to assist with an appeal, and they have been very effective in securing full benefits. Among other things, they understood the nature of my physical limitations in my profession, and were able to address all the issues raised by the insurer. The paralegals at Dell & Schaefer have been equally effective, and I specifically want to recognize them for their efforts, their responsiveness, and their concern both for my condition and for my claim. I recommend Dell & Schaefer to anyone with an unsatisfied disability claim.

I can’t thank Rachel and Machal enough, my disability case was stopped by the insurance company on Veterans Day 2016 so at that point I went for the appeal myself. Each level of appeal I lost even though I needed back surgery again, my only regret is not contacting Dell & Schaefer sooner.

Disability companies are not your friend and when they play their paper work games and medical reviews, that’s when you want an attorney like Rachel on your side. Anyone reading this and wondering what to do if you have a denial letter from the disability company or an upcoming review, please call Rachel and let her handle everything. This firm works hard and it shows with their attention to detail and the concern for the client.

I am very satisfied with my experience working with Dell & Schaefer. From the first intake call to the assignment of an attorney, I always felt that my questions and concerns were answered completely and timely. The attorney that handled my appeal made a very overwhelming, difficult process manageable and assisted us step by step. When dealing with illness and disability, you are not able to stand up and fight for yourself and this is where the vast experience and recommendations with LTD were relied upon. In addition, the legal assistant assigned to my case was a valuable asset to the outcome by always keeping me updated on the progress of the case and any necessary documentation that was required from me. Communication from this team was excellent.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Dell & Schaefer has the background and experience I needed for my LTD case. I would strongly recommend this firm to anyone experiencing issues with denial of a LTD claim.

I have been on LTD, since Aug 2016, and New York Life is my LTD Insurance Company. I received a couple of payments from New York Life, without any issues, but then the payments stopped in Oct, at which time I was informed by New York Life that they were “looking into” my claim. New York Life stopped contacting me, would not even return calls or emails, but finally contacted me in mid-December to inform me that they would not be continuing with my claim.

I contacted Dell Disability Lawyers in January, at which time I began working with Attorney Alex Palamara, Disability Appeal Specialist Randa Escayg, and Legal Assistant Kathy Bordes. These folks were always kind, professional, understanding, did a great job of explaining everything to me, and most importantly I could tell that they truly cared about the situation my wife and I had unfortunately found ourselves in.

I fully understand the feeling of being overwhelmed, when you are first denied, that David vs Goliath feeling of you against some huge conglomerate, that powerless and helpless feeling that overcomes you when you are sick and injured and at your most vulnerable. The only things that you are able to focus on are saving your family’s home, doing whatever you can to take care of them, all while you should be focusing your energy on getting better, as much as you are able, so that you can recover your life to what it once was, returning your current life of overwhelming stress and chaos to some semblance of normalcy. Well, as soon as I began working with Alex, Randa, and Kathy, I immediately felt better, like I finally had someone in my corner fighting for me, somebody who cared, and somebody who would stand up to that giant corporation, and make things right.

Alex won my appeal for me, and New York Life is in the process of restoring my full benefits, retro back to October. I cannot describe to you the feeling of joy and elation the moment my wife and I were notified we had won. To those currently dealing with a LTD company, and all of the madness that entails, just know that there is a light at the end of the long dark tunnel. You do still have hope, and you can certainly do no better than to have the wonderful folks at Dell Disability Lawyers in your corner fighting for you!!!!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
From my initial contact, to current time, all of my dealings with Alex, Randa, and Kathy have been very professional, and I always felt that my case mattered, that what my family and I were being put through, knowingly and intentionally by New York Life, mattered. The feeling of security cannot be overstated, especially during a time when you need to be focusing on healing, and not on how your next mortgage payment is going to be made.

What could we do to improve?
I cannot think of anything. I was impressed from my initial contact with Alex, through my initial correspondence with Randa, and that feeling continues.

I had a wonderful experience with my attorney. She explained everything to me on what to expect from her and what she could do for me. She kept me informed all along the way. She answered all my questions anytime one would come about.

Mr. Symonds, and all staff that I worked with at Dell & Shaefer, were professional in every aspect throughout the process of filing for a contested claim of Long Term Disability with The Hartford. After having approved Short Term Disability, and with no improvement in my condition, The Hartford somehow found that I was no longer disabled.

Mr. Symonds conducted research and collected collaborative documentation from all health care professional involved with my treatment, diagnosis, short/long term prognosis, and relevant history. In all aspects of preparation to submit my claim during the appeal process, Dell & Schaefer was diligent in tending to my interests and in preserving my privacy. Ultimately, my appeal was approved, Long Term Disability was retroactively enacted, and diligent service continues today, with Mr. Symonds and staff remaining accessible and responsive during every step of the way.

Bottom Line: I would engage Dell & Schaefer, and specifically Mr. Jay P. Symonds, for any legal needs; especially any issues with Short/Long Term Disability with The Hartford or any of their kind.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
The attorneys at Dell & Schaefer were easy to work with, and are efficient and effective in all areas related to my claim against The Hartford. This, along with reasonable fees/costs, provides for an overall highly attractive value proposition.

What could we do to improve?
I really didn’t find any deficiencies; fees/costs, accessibility, effectiveness, total customer satisfaction were all met at a high level.

I could not be happier with the service and dedication I received from Mr. Jessup and his team regarding my Long Term Disability from my employer. If not for Mr. Jessup I would have never had a favorable decision, as I had received two denials before I had contacted Mr. Jessup. My advice to anyone looking for a lawyer to go to bat for you without backing down and having your best interests a top priority Mr. Jessup is who you need to call.

I reached out to Dell & Schaefer online after my disability claim denial. Rachel Alters called me that very day to discuss my case and clearly outlined the process. Rachel proactively scheduled time with me once she decided to take my appeal, to review my contract with Dell & Schaefer, address any questions I had about the process or the terms of the contract, as well as provide insight on what to expect once my appeal was filed. Ultimately, Rachel won my appeal against MetLife, which meant that I could focus on getting better! I cannot express how grateful I am to have partnered with Dell & Schaefer to successfully win this appeal.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Early in my conversations with Rachel, it was obvious to me that she had solid experience with insurance and disability appeals for executives. Everyone at Dell & Schaffer, Rachel and her assistant Kathleen, was very responsive in a timely way to my inquiries. I appreciated that so much, as sometimes working through insurance processes feels like a ‘black hole’! Rachel and Kathleen made sure that I always knew the status of my case. Even if we didn’t win my appeal, I would feel confident that I had partnered with the best firm to represent me. But in my case, we did win the appeal which makes my recovery possible!

What could we do to improve?
I cannot think of anything about my experience with Dell & Schaefer that would need improvement. Even though we live in separate states, and 100% of our communication was via phone/email/fax, I never felt remote in the process. Thank you so much for helping me.