Georgia Disability Insurance Lawyer Representation for Your LTD Insurance Claim
If you’re a resident of Georgia grappling with denied short or long-term disability benefits, navigating the legal landscape can be complex. Whether you’re just starting the claims process, appealing a denial, or contemplating a lawsuit, it’s usually best to seek guidance from a disability insurance lawyer and carefully go through your options. Understanding the nuances of Georgia law is crucial, as state-specific aspects can impact your case significantly.
Legal Avenues for Georgia Residents
Georgia residents facing denied disability insurance claims have several legal avenues to explore:
- State Courts: Disability claimants in Georgia can file a lawsuit in the state’s appellate courts, including the Court of Appeals and the Georgia Supreme Court. However, specific criteria must be met.
- Federal District Court: If the disability insurance company is located in another state, and the disability benefits amount exceeds $75,000, the lawsuit can be filed in Georgia’s Federal District Court.
- ERISA Claims: Employer-provided disability insurance policies governed by ERISA must be filed in federal court. Georgia has three Federal District Courts that handle such cases.
It’s worth noting that ERISA-governed disability claims can usually be filed in any state where the insurance company operates, providing claimants with flexibility.
Selecting an Experienced Disability Insurance Lawyer in Georgia
When seeking assistance from a disability insurance attorney in Georgia, it’s crucial to evaluate their experience with your specific disability insurance company. At the Law Offices of Dell Disability Lawyers, we have an extensive track record of dealing with major disability insurance companies, earning recognition for our aggressive, competent, and reliable representation. We understand the strategies these nationwide companies employ, allowing us to advocate effectively for disability insurance claimants.
Nationwide Representation
Our commitment extends beyond Georgia. We offer attorney representation across the United States. You won’t need to visit our office; we’re here to assist you remotely. If, for any reason, we can’t assist you, we’ll make every effort to connect you with someone who can. Explore our comprehensive website and download our free E-brochure to learn more about our legal services.
If you require attorney representation for your disability benefits claim, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free phone consultation. We handle all aspects of the claims process, from initial applications to appeals and litigation, ensuring you have the legal support you need.
Answers to Questions About Working With Us
I need a disability insurance lawyer near me. Do you work in Georgia?
Yes. We are a national disability insurance law firm with extensive experience and we are available to represent you regardless of where you live in Georgia or anywhere else in the United States. We have partner disability insurance lawyers in every state and we have filed lawsuits in most federal courts nationwide. Our long term disability lawyers represent disability claimants at all stages of a claim for disability insurance benefits, and we deal with clients who have a wide variety of medical conditions or have experienced injury. There is nothing that our lawyers have not seen in the disability insurance world, so please do not hesitate to give us a call for a free initial consultation.
What are your fees?
Since we represent disability insurance claimants at different stages of a disability insurance claim, we offer a variety of different fee options. We understand that claimants living on disability insurance benefits have a limited source of income; therefore we always try to work with the clients to make our attorney fees as affordable as possible. The three available fee options are a contingency fee basis (no attorney fee or cost unless we make a recovery), hourly fee or fixed flat rate. In every case we provide each client with a written fee agreement detailing the terms and conditions. We always offer a free initial phone consultation and we appreciate the opportunity to work with you in obtaining payment of your disability insurance benefits.
Do I have to come to your office to work with your law firm?
No. Someone from our legal team is are certainly available to meet with you at any of our satellite offices located in either Georgia or another state. However, following a review of your disability policy, medical records, or any other pertinent documents and a free telephone conversation we are usually able to make a determination. It is our job to try to get our clients paid their disability insurance benefits as quickly as possible; therefore we prefer to have an initial consultation via telephone to review your benefits claim. For purposes of efficiency and to reduce expenses for our clients we have found that 99% of our clients prefer to communicate via telephone, e-mail, fax, GoToMeeting.com sessions, or Skype. If you prefer an initial in-person meeting, please let us know. A disability company will never require you to come to their office and similarly we are set up so that we handle your entire claim without the need for you to come to our office. Whether you need help with the initial application process, ERISA-governed policy issues, employer-sponsored Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance problems, insurance company denial, appeals, or litigation processes, we are happy to help remotely.
How can I contact you?
When you call us during normal business hours, you will immediately speak with a disability insurance attorney. We can be reached at 800-698-9159 or by email. Because we have extensive resources, our lawyers and staff return all client calls the same day. Client emails are usually replied to within the same business day and seem to be the preferred and most efficient method of communication for most clients.
Top 5 Disability Insurance Cases Resolved by Dell Disability Lawyers in Georgia
Dell Disability Lawyers’ Appeal forces Lincoln re-approve cafeteria manager’s disability claim — A cafeteria manager in Worth County School District had her long-term disability insurance claim approved by The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company. However, after two years, the company stopped her benefits, stating that she was capable of performing a job. She appealed this decision but was unsuccessful. She then hired Attorney Alexander Palamara from Dell Disability Lawyers. With the support of her doctors and evidence, the lawyer made a strong appeal against Lincoln’s decision. Lincoln agreed to reverse its denial and reinstate her benefits from December 4, 2017. She will now receive her benefits until she turns 65.
Aetna overturns their previous decision to deny long-term disability benefits for Georgia assistant — An executive assistant from Georgia was initially denied long-term disability benefits by Aetna. The client, referred to as Ms. A, stopped working in 2014 due to multiple physical conditions and filed for disability benefits under her employer’s Long-term Disability (LTD) Policy, which was facilitated and funded by Aetna. After receiving LTD benefits for two years, Aetna denied Ms. A continued benefits, stating that she was not completely disabled according to the policy definition. Attorney Jay Symonds contested Aetna’s denial of Ms. A’s disability benefits. He raised concerns about faulty health and vocational reviews and false claims regarding the client’s potential work capabilities. The appeal addressed each of Aetna’s reasons for denial and highlighted their inaccurate assessment of her ability to perform sedentary work. Eventually, a financial resolution was reached for Ms. A’s claim after extensive review.
Lincoln approves LTD claim for former Biomet employee with Meniere’s Disease— Lincoln has approved and paid a long term disability claim for a former Project Manager of Biomet, Inc. The claimant had her claim initially denied, but after two appeals, it was approved. Dell Disability Lawyers, led by Attorney Alexander Palamara, conducted both appeals against Lincoln’s denial. Palamara collected supportive statements from all of her treating doctors to strengthen the case. The second appeal was filed in April 2017 with updated medical documentation and letters of support from physicians. Finally, in August 2017, Lincoln approved the claim and the client has received all the due benefits from December 20, 2015, and is now receiving monthly disability benefits.
Prudential overturns denial for Dell Disability Lawyers’ client suffering with serious Back Conditions — A client with back conditions had his Long Term Disability (LTD) benefits reinstated by insurer Prudential. The client, a former Vessel Pilot, has lumbar spondylosis, lumbar radicularopathy, tendonitis, and muscle spasms affecting his capacity to work. Initially, Prudential accepted his claim and paid LTD benefits from August 2013 to 2014. However, they terminated his benefits after an independent medical examination and surveillance footage. After consulting with Dell Disability Lawyers and filing an appeal, Prudential overturned its decision 45 days later, reinstating the client’s benefits. Dell Disability Lawyer continues to represent the client is his ongoing fight for benefits
Sedgwick reinstates long term disability claim following Appeal — A Field Engineer applied for disability benefits because of chronic pain. However, the benefits were denied even though there was medical evidence. Dell Disability Lawyers helped with the appeal and provided job demand information. The denial of short term disability was reversed, but long term disability remained denied. Another appeal pointed out contradictions in Sedgwick’s decisions. Eventually, long term disability benefits were granted. Sedgwick has a track record of trying to deny clients their benefits, so it’s important to stay vigilant.
Reviews From Georgia Clients
Choosing a disability law firm to represent you in the application, appeals, or lawsuit stages is no easy task. You want to look for a law office with legal experts who have extensive experience in dealing with initial disability claims, appeals processes, and litigation, and have handled thousands of claims. It’s vital that your chosen disability insurance lawyers of Georgia have extensive legal resources, a well-earned reputation, and a high client satisfaction rate. Be sure to read some of the client recommendations to make the best decisions:
Melissa from Atlanta
I wanted to thank you for taking a chance on my husband’s case when no one else would. I knew it would be an uphill battle, but I’m pleased with the outcome. As I said, it’s like found money. I really do appreciate everything that Mr. Alex Palamara and Vanessa did during this process.
Christopher G. from Sandy Springs
I am very pleased with the job done by Dell Disability Lawyers. From start to finish the team that worked with me was very thorough, professional and communicated with me frequently. They really took the time to understand my situation and came up with an effective strategy to win my appeal. I would not hesitate to recommend Dell Disability Lawyers to anyone needing this type of legal support.
Ron K. from Savannah
I was on disability with a major insurance company for five years without any problems, upon a field rep’s visit to my home, I let him know that I was planning to try to go back to work. I did try to go back to work but with my severe sleep apnea and depression and several medications that made me very tired, the work day became impossible, when I let the case manager know that I couldn’t work without getting very tired and having to take a nap after a few hours on the job, he told me that the claim would be reexamined. I waited 9 months without any monthly benefit benefits being paid to me, the company gave me several excuses and I was in a real pickle, I researched long term disability insurance attorneys since I was in the insurance business and was told that the very best in the business for representation of my issues was a firm called Dell Disability Lawyers.
I reached out to the firm and was put in touch with an attorney named Steve Jessup, from that point forward, my problems seemed to fall off my shoulders and into the firms hands, I can’t explain in words what this firm did for me and my family.
Steve Jessup & Gregory Dell began working on my case immediately and I felt confident with every action they took. The insurance company as most wanted to settle my case for pennies on the dollar, but with the skill of the two attorneys, I was able to settle my case for a once in a lifetime lump sum payment from the disability insurance company that will take care of me and my family for life. All I can say is that these guys were like a machine grinding away in the trenches agains the insurance companies attorneys and getting me a great settlement. I would highly recommend this firm for anyone who felt like I did up against bad odds with a large insurance company and no where to turn to.
The best experience I have ever had with any attorneys.
Brett C. from Atlanta
I have been on LTD, since Aug 2016, and Cigna is my LTD Insurance Company. I received a couple of payments from Cigna, without any issues, but then the payments stopped in Oct, at which time I was informed by Cigna that they were “looking into” my claim. Cigna 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 Cigna 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!!!!
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 Cigna, 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.
Shaun D. from Columbus
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 Disability Lawyers 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.
Answers to Questions Regarding Disability Insurance in Georgia
How does short and long-term disability insurance work in Georgia?
In Georgia, disability insurance offers vital financial protection for individuals facing illness or injury that renders them unable to work. To navigate this complex terrain effectively, you need a clear understanding of short-term and long-term disability insurance.
Short-term Disability Insurance:
- What it covers: Short-term disability insurance provides a safety net by replacing a portion of your income for periods typically ranging from three months to a year.
- Eligibility: Available if you cannot work due to an illness or injury.
- Acquiring Coverage: Obtainable through your employer or via a private policy.
Long-term Disability Insurance:
- Coverage and Duration: Long-term disability insurance goes further, furnishing a more substantial portion of your salary for extended periods, often spanning five years or more. It becomes active after a 90-day waiting period.
- Procuring Coverage: Similar to short-term disability insurance, you can secure long-term coverage through your employer or by purchasing a private policy.
In the Peach State, it’s worth noting that long-term disability insurance also extends a helping hand in covering medical expenses related to your disability. This includes doctor visits, prescription medications, and essential equipment such as wheelchairs. Ensuring you comprehend the intricacies of your policy is crucial, as it prepares you for the unexpected and empowers you to manage your financial stability effectively. Keeping meticulous records of your medical treatments and associated expenses can prove invaluable when the need arises.
What qualifies you for disability insurance benefits in Georgia?
In Georgia, eligibility for short and long-term disability insurance benefits hinges on your ability to engage in substantial and gainful activity. In other words, if a physical or mental condition prevents you from participating in activities that would typically generate income through wages or salary, you may qualify for these essential benefits.
When seeking long-term disability insurance benefits in Georgia, thoroughness is paramount. A well-prepared application should include a comprehensive medical history, documenting all treatments and medications prescribed. It should also incorporate any relevant medical records and evidence of income loss due to your disability. Accuracy and currency of information are critical to ensure you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Why are disability insurance benefit claims denied in Georgia?
In Georgia, denial of short and long-term disability insurance claims can occur for various reasons. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you navigate the claims process successfully:
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: To substantiate your claim, provide comprehensive medical records that clearly support your disability.
- Failure to Meet Policy Requirements: Familiarize yourself with your policy’s specific requirements to avoid potential pitfalls during the claims process.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Some policies exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, which can lead to a denial if your disability has such a component.
- Failure to Comply with Policy Rules and Regulations: Ensure strict adherence to your policy’s rules and regulations, including timelines for document submission and medical appointments.
When filing a disability insurance claim in Georgia, meticulous attention to detail is your best ally. Understanding potential obstacles, such as Activity of Daily Living (ADL) questionnaires, requested documents, and treatment compliance, can help you steer clear of unnecessary complications.
How do you fight a disability insurance benefit denial in Georgia?
In the unfortunate event of a denial, taking proactive steps can be instrumental in securing the benefits you deserve:
- Contact the Insurer: Begin by requesting a detailed explanation for the denial from the insurance company, along with all relevant paperwork.
- File an Appeal: If necessary, file an appeal with the insurer, ensuring you include comprehensive supporting documents and evidence.
- Negotiate a Settlement: Consider negotiation with the insurance company to resolve the dispute without court involvement, with the guidance of an experienced disability insurance lawyer in Georgia.
- Legal Action: If all else fails, legal action may be required. In Georgia, you can file a lawsuit in either state or federal court, with your disability insurance attorney guiding you through the process.
A robust legal team is invaluable when your case enters the courtroom. An experienced disability insurance lawyer in Georgia will craft a compelling argument, navigate the legal intricacies, and ensure that your rights are upheld throughout the proceedings.
What is the appeals process for disability insurance benefit denials in Georgia?
The appeals process for denied short and long-term disability insurance benefits in Georgia involves several steps:
- Filing an Appeal: Start by filing an appeal with the insurance company, providing additional documentation to bolster your claim.
- Review by the Insurer: The insurance company will review the submitted information and make a final determination on your benefits.
- Negotiation: If necessary, consider negotiating a settlement with the insurer to resolve the dispute amicably.
- Legal Action: As a last resort, you may need to pursue legal action. This entails presenting your case in court, supported by comprehensive documentation and evidence.
Your choice of legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your appeal. An experienced disability insurance lawyer in Georgia will ensure your case is presented effectively and in adherence to the law.
Do I have to file my disability insurance denial lawsuit in Georgia?
When filing a disability insurance lawsuit in Georgia, the specific circumstances of your case will dictate whether you can pursue your claim in other states. Many disability policies, particularly those governed by the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), allow for lawsuits in federal courts across multiple states. However, if your policy falls under state law, you will typically need to file your lawsuit in the state where the policy was issued.
Why work with a disability insurance lawyer in Georgia?
Engaging the services of a disability insurance lawyer in Georgia offers numerous advantages:
- Expert Guidance: Disability insurance attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of the law and can guide you through the complex appeals process.
- Evidence Management: They can help compile and present comprehensive medical and legal evidence to support your case effectively.
- Legal Representation: An experienced attorney will represent your interests vigorously, ensuring your rights are upheld.
- Negotiation Skills: In settlement negotiations, a skilled lawyer can work on your behalf to secure a favorable outcome.
- Legal Insight: Your attorney can demystify legal terms and concepts, helping you make informed decisions.
Having a reputable law firm by your side in the disability appeals process enhances your chances of obtaining the benefits you rightfully deserve. It’s an investment in your financial stability during challenging times.
Georgia Courts, Government and Georgia Department of Insurance Information
- Georgia Court System Official website
- Supreme Court – The Official Georgia Supreme Court website
- Court of Appeals of the State of Georgia official website
- Georgia Court Structure Chart
- Official Government Website of the State of Georgia – Information regarding the state of Georgia governmental entities resources.
- Georgia Department of Insurance – Regulates all insurance companies that do business in Georgia.
Federal Courts
- U.S. Court of Appeals (11th Circuit) – This court has jurisdiction over appeals from United States District Courts located in Florida, Georgia and Alabama.
- Middle District of Georgia Federal Court
- Northern District of Georgia Federal Court
- Southern District of Georgia Federal Court
