Attorney Steven Dell

Steven Dell and Merlin were with me for 3 years as we battled UNUM insurance company- and we were successful each step of the way! Amazing service and Steven Dell is what I consider a “Lawyer’s Lawyer” in the breadth of his knowledge and expertise.

Very professional and reponsive to all my questions. This firm will solve your disability insurance issues.

As a business owner and dentist, I never imagined that I would find myself in the situation of requiring the need for a disability benefit. I will be forever grateful for the amazing service and care that I have received while dealing with the most difficult time of my life. Steven and Merlin have been compassionate and patient throughout the entire process. I have hope for the future knowing that they are on my side every step of the way. I highly recommend anyone in need of disability benefits to seek their assistance.

One year in working with Steven and Merlin and I can’t say enough of what an incredible team they are. You simply can’t afford to not have their level of service when your financial security is on the line.

I have been with Dell Disability for four years. One of the best decisions I have ever made was to work with Stephen Dell. He is the Michael Jordan of disability law. His administrator, Merlin, is phenomenal. There is a very unfortunate fact about these insurance companies that they do not want to pay you and couldn’t care less about you. Mr. Dell and Merlin care about you and will fight for you to keep your benefits.

We cannot say enough about the exceptional experience we’ve had working with Mr. Steven Dell and his team at Dell Disability Lawyers. I am writing this review on behalf of my spouse and myself—one a physician, the other a dentist—who have been navigating the complexities of filing a long-term disability (LTD) claim. From the very beginning of considering whether to file, Mr. Dell has been an invaluable guide, and his expertise has made all the difference.

Hiring Mr. Dell and his firm early in the process was the best decision we could have made. The initial phases of an LTD claim are critical, and having their professional counsel ensured we avoided any potentially fatal missteps. They were always one step ahead, helping us present our case clearly and effectively from the outset.

The professionalism of this firm is unmatched. Every email, every question—no matter how small—was answered promptly and thoroughly. The level of care and attention they provide to their clients is extraordinary, and it is clear that this is not just a job for them but a calling. This is without a doubt one of the most premier law firms we have ever worked with.

We firmly believe that without Mr. Dell’s and Kathy’s guidance, our claim would not have been successful. Their expertise, dedication, and unwavering support have been a lifeline during what could have been an incredibly stressful and uncertain time. If you are even considering filing an LTD claim, enlist their help immediately—it is worth every penny to have them on your side from the start.

Thank you, Mr. Dell, Kathy, and the entire team, for your outstanding work. We are forever grateful!

I am a physician in my 30s who was practicing in my hospital based medical specialty until my Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis began to severely limit my physical ability to work.

My husband and I were obviously in distress at these very unwanted life changes and frankly overwhelmed with the possibility of a long and traumatizing legal battle ahead of us. We knew we were legally entitled to benefits through the separate private individual and employer based ERISA disability insurance policies we had, but even cursory research and discussion with colleagues made it clear that insurance companies will strategize with their own legal teams to find ways to not pay out benefits. We found many before us who had fallen unwittingly into legal pitfalls that prevented them from ultimately obtaining benefits. We realized we needed to seek legal counseling.

We found Dell Disability Lawyers through their YouTube channel where their partners have videos discussing the legal intricacies and latest developments in private disability law. I was impressed by their dedication to the field and reached out through their website to request a free consultation.

We were delighted to hear that Mr. Steven Dell himself would be willing to take our case and felt assured that we would be represented by the best of the best.

We have not been disappointed in our expectation and have, in fact, been consistently very impressed. Steven Dell is clearly both knowledgeable and wise about dealing with these issues but more importantly, has shown kindness and impeccable honesty at each step of the way.

Merlin has demonstrated a very high capacity for organizing and handling the endless myriad of documents and communications between us and the insurance companies. She has also been very compassionate, accessible and forthcoming in dealing with our many anxiety fueled emails and telephone calls to her and we are very grateful for her involvement.

For over 7 months, we have been working closely with Steven Dell and Merlin Bryan from Dell Disability Lawyers as they have guided us through the process of review and initial application for benefits from our two insurance policies (Hartford and Ameritas).

We are happy to announce we just received approval of claim from the Hartford insurance company.

At this time we are still working with this firm as we await the final decisions from Ameritas policy that we are hopeful will have a similar outcome.

As anyone with a chronic and progressive illness can tell you, time becomes a very precious commodity. Through their representation, Dell Disability Lawyers has allowed us to focus the majority of our time enjoying the time and function I have left while resting assured that our disability case laid in competent and caring hands.

The truth is that no amount of money can make up for what we have lost, but it is a huge comfort to have a team like Dell Disability Lawyers at our sides to help us ensure we will be able to continue to care for ourselves and our families.

We highly recommend Dell Disability Lawyers, Mr. Steven Dell and Ms. Merlin Bryan to handle your disability insurance claim.

Thank you Steven, thank you Merlin!

We will certainly plan on leaving another review for completeness once we have our final decision from Ameritas.

After exhausting all efforts to find a local disability law firm to assist me with submitting claims for LTD non-ERISA and ERISA disability insurance policies, I resorted to a Google search for disability law firms. I decided to contact Dell Disability Lawyers after reading their clients reviews and watching videos on their website. Within 24 hours of contacting Dell Disability Lawyers, I received I call back and an appointment was made with Steven J. Dell, who after hearing my story decided to personally work with me.

He told me that he would put 100% effort to get me on claim. Mr. Dell and his assistant, Merlin Bryan were always available via phone or email to answer any questions that I had regarding my application for long term disability. He was meticulous in guiding me through the process leaving no stone unturned. My claims were approved on the initial application! I know that it was due to the diligence of my attorney, Steven J. Dell. Without Mr. Dell, my application for long term disability would have been rejected. I am very grateful to have had the representation of attorney, Steven J. Dell. 

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Experts in non-ERISA and ERISA disability law. Dell & Schaefer Law Firm have a well-deserved reputation of taking on big disability insurance companies and winning for their clients. If you find yourself in need of a disability attorney, I highly recommend this firm. You will not be disappointed!

What could we do to improve?
Not a thing. I am a satisfied client.

This firm does exceptional work. I worked with them for my application for long term disability. My claim was approved on the initial application with one of the most notoriously difficult insurance carriers in the business. I’m 100% sure that this was due to my attorney Steven Dell. He was meticulous in shepparding me through the process making sure everything was done with precision and done correctly.

My anxiety thought this process was through the roof and Mr. Dell was always there to reassure me and peal me of the ceiling if needed. Mr. Dell and his assistant Merlin were always diligent and immediately responsive when I needed reassurance, help or something needed to be done. If you have a disability claim hire Mr. Dell and this firm. It will be the best money you ever spend.

Steven Dell and the staff helped me through a very difficult period in my life. I am very grateful. I am a physician and take care of people in very difficult situations 24/7. When I get that level of care and expertise back I am deeply deeply appreciative. They facilitated a difficult process, made it relatively easy, and obtained a successful outcome. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Steve Dell has done an exceptional job with my disability application process. The firm is extremely well managed. They have acquired an incredible amount of experience over many years. I recommend them for disability insurance claims without reservation. 

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Well run organization. They are very punctual and highly experienced.

What could we do to improve?
The only difficulty I’ve had has been scanning large files. But, the issue is mine, not theirs.

Words can only scratch the surface regarding my experience working with Attorneys Dell & Schaefer. It’s a very emotional experience making the decision to utilize disability insurance. The unknowns were/are scary. From the very first phone call, the support staff was/are very professional and reassuring. I have been working with Attorney Steven Dell for approximately 10 years. He is confident, reassuring, listens to and addresses all my concern, and is extremely dilligent in understanding my specific policies for how they impact me. It is very reassuring that Steven handles and deals with the insurance company on my behalf. Attorney Dell’s team, and specifically Merlin, Attorney Dell’s assistant, is simply fantastic. Her professionalism and attention to detail have made all my communications with the office seamless.

Simply put, my experience with Dell & Schaefer made the emotional rollercoaster experience of my neck surgery seem like a walk in the park.

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, to both Attorney Steven Dell and to Merlin for how you have helped me over these past 10 years.

Dilligence, Reassurance, Professionalism at every step, Confidence, Results.

With 10 years experience with working with Dell & Schaefer, taking that step to call Attorneys Dell & Schaefer was one of the best professional and personal decisions I have ever made.

You want to know what you can do – the below comment about posting your first name and last name initial on our website. Put up my full name, phone number, and email address. I will gladly speak to anyone about your office and tell them my story and how instrumental Steven and Merlin have been in my life over the past 10 years.

ABSOLUTELY THE BEST!

After practicing over 27 yrs., suddenly I was now unable to practice any more. Having Atty. Steven Dell and his awesome team represent me was the best decision I made having to deal with my disability claim. Their knowledge, expertise and professionalism gave me the peace of mind and confidence to get me through one of the most difficult times of my life. When you really need someone to have your back, knowing that you have the best that there is, makes all the difference in the world.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
No matter what, they always made me feel like I was the most important client they had. In life, you always want to have the best there is. Dell Disability Lawyers are the best you can get.

After practicing dentistry for 34 years, I was forced to stop working due to a long history of cervical degenerative disc disease and associated complications that impair my ability to practice my profession. When I learned that this was a permanent condition and I would likely never be able to practice again, I contacted Dell & Schaefer to assist me with filing my private disability insurance claim. I wanted the expertise and guidance of an experienced disability attorney from the beginning so that I would not be faced later on with having to undo problems I might unknowingly create on my own.

I was most fortunate to be represented by Mr. Steven Dell, who patiently answered each one of my questions and carefully steered me through every step of the disability claim process. He thoroughly got to know me, the history of my condition, and as my legal professional intermediary with the insurance company, guided me in compiling everything we needed for him to submit the claim for me. When Mr. Dell called to give me the good news that my claim had been successfully awarded and that he would continue to “be there” for me going forward, it was clearly confirmed to me that the key to this successful outcome was my decision, early on, to contact Dell & Schaefer.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Their professionalism and personal care for me as a client; their extensive knowledge of disability law and experience in successfully dealing with disability insurance carriers; their long track record of successful disability claims outcomes; their availability and prompt responses to my questions as a client; their frank and honest full disclosure with no surprises from the beginning; their commitment to continue representing me as a client even after a successful disability claim award.

The best advice I received when I started the process of filing my disability insurance claim was to hire the best, most experienced disability insurance lawyer available – Mr. Steven Dell. As a physician I especially appreciated and respected his thoughtful, reasoned, and meticulous attention to detail. A thorough and seasoned professional Steven prepared me every step of the way. His wisdom and expertise made me feel at ease during the entire process. Knowing that Steven will continue to protect my interests going forward is priceless. Thank you Steven!

What could we do to improve?
No suggestions for improvement, my experience was stellar.

My experience with attorney Stephen Dell and his ace paralegal, Merlin Bryan, was first rate. I am an attorney who found herself disabled at a relatively young age (52). Stephen and Merlin had vast experience in dealing with my disability insurance carrier and prepared a detailed and thorough application on my behalf that I, in no way, could have prepared on my own. They repeatedly just told me to concentrate on getting better. They were compassionate and knowledgeable. They filed my claim in March and it was approved in April. I had never in my life had such a seamless… and dare I say pleasant… interaction with an insurance carrier.

What could we do to improve?
Not a thing. You are first class.

Steve Dell helped me navigate and make sense of the disability insurance world. With his help, I was able to submit a clean claim so that the insurance company approved my disability without any delay. Dell & Schaefer was the second law firm I had enlisted for help with my claim. I wish I would have talked to them first. I am still a relatively young man (56) and this policy will make it possible for my family and I to have some degree of stability going forward. Thank you Steve for you counsel and guidance.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Disability is all they do. They won’t take the case if they do not think there is merit in your claim.

What could we do to improve?
Nobody is perfect, but I have no suggestions for improvement.

I was given the complete run a round with my insurance company on my LTD. I called Dell & Schaefer and spoke with Steven Dell and after an hour long conversation, he advised me that he would handle my case. In six weeks in his hands, my case was approved and my long term disability claim was approved. The insurance company still tried to make my life a living hell but, with Steven Dell, they backed off. Great Firm and I thank them for their help.

I did a lot of research on disability attorneys before hiring Dell & Schaefer. Many firms do real estate, legal defense and disability on the side. I wanted a firm that specialized in and only did disability claims. I chose Dell & Schaefer after many conversations with Steven Dell. Mr. Dell was very professional giving me all pluses and minuses of my claim. It was an extraordinary amount of paperwork but this was all made easy by Merlin Bryan. Merlin walked me through all the steps and was on top of everything needed. My initial claim was denied but Mr. Dell assured me I still had a good case and suggested an appeal. The appeal attorney, Stephen Jessup, was also very professional and very assuring. Bottom line, my disability was approved. I couldn’t be more happy with the firm.

One of the best things about the firm was how accessible everyone is. Mr. Dell and Mr. Jessup always returned my phone calls the same day. If I emailed Merlin Bryan something I received an answer within minutes. Mr. Jessup even replied to my emails on weekends.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Bottom line, if you need a real estate attorney look elsewhere. If you need a disability attorney, look no further. Dell & Schaefer is a great firm to deal with and gets results!

What could we do to improve?
Nothing, I am very pleased.

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 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.

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 am a long time private practicing dentist that was stricken by a sudden and severe neurological condition, which presented with very subjective symptoms. For 6 months I resisted filing a claim due to the difficulty in verifying the presence of the illness let alone its severity. However after being recommended to Dell & Schaefer by a colleague, and consultation with Steven, I went ahead, be it with a guarded optimism.

Mr. Dell’s advice and guidance was critical in achieving the successful outcome that we did. I originally thought to “go it alone”, but in hind sight there were multiple considerations that I would have certainly missed had it not been for Steven’s acumen and experience.

Mr. Dell and his team far exceeded my expectations in every capacity. He was focused, clear, responsive, efficient and above all exceedingly knowledgeable.

I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking similar counsel. I truly feel that I could not have been better represented.

When I first called Dell & Schaefer from half way across the country, Steven Dell called me backed and he took my case very seriously and acted quickly to help me apply for benefits. His work got me the benefits I deserved. When I stopped getting benefits because the insurance company thought they no longer had to pay them, Steven Dell appealed the decision in a timely fashion all the while reassuring me as I panicked. His knowledge of the law and of my policy made my appeal very strong.

When they denied my appeal he was immediately on the phone with the attorneys for the insurance company and with very strong arguments, he negotiated a significant settlement for me. All during this time he responded to my emails and phone calls in a timely fashion and he was able to reassure me regarding the time that the process took. His staff was also very pleasant and helpful, especially Merlin.

I have really come to respect Steven Dell’s abilities and his integrity. My only regret is that I have never met him in person and have not been able to shake his hand and thank him for all he has done for me.

What could we do to improve?
Can’t think of any way you can improve.

There are not enough words to describe how delighted I am with the representation that I received from the law firm Dell & Schaefer. During this, the lowest point in my life, when I felt nothing but despair, completely hopeless and as though my world was coming to an end, Steven J. Dell, his colleagues and their support staff were all there for me each and every step of this terrible journey that I’ve had to traverse.

As an attorney myself, I always tried to provide superior representation to my clients. That meant not only being well versed on the technical side of the law, but also understanding the emotional impact that led the clients to come to my office. I can not think of a better complement but to simply say, that Steven J. Dell has been the type of attorney that I always tried to be. To the people at Dell & Schaefer, I want to thank you for all of your help. I don’t know where I would be today without you.

I am a physician with a long medical history including cancer, arthritis, peripheral vascular disease, and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (formerly RSD). I expected to retire early. However, my health and work deteriorated rather rapidly. Suddenly I was no longer working and needed help negotiating my benefits. The first two attorneys I met were personally recommended. I soon learned that they had either limited or no experience with private LTD policies. I searched the internet for more information about Long Term Disability claims. The Dell & Schaefer website kept popping up with the answers to my questions. I liked both the text explanations and the videos. With nothing to lose, I requested a free consultation.

From the beginning, Attorney Steven Dell and legal assistant Merlin Bryan have been consistently honest, professional and patient. During my initial phone conversation with Steven Dell, it was clear that he understood both my medical conditions and my work situation. He had already read my LTD policies and was familiar with both the Unum and the Hartford insurance companies. Steven Dell is an excellent, thorough attorney. What does that mean? First, he knows what information is needed to submit a claim. Early on, he gave me a checklist of items he needed. At times, it felt like a part-time job, finding all of the financial, employment, and medical records he needed. Yet Steven Dell and Merlin Bryan were very patient whenever I had a health setback. They actually understood that folks with health problems have problems filling out paperwork. Second, he picked up the phone and contacted lawyers, human resources, personnel and insurance agents to keep the paperwork moving. Third, he is relentlessly thorough. I submitted hundreds of pages of paperwork. He actually seems to have read them! He double checked that dates, numbers and statements were accurate. He would not submit any paperwork until any discrepancies were discussed and resolved. At this time, two LTD claims have been approved and I have received my first benefits. I have nothing but respect and gratitude for this law firm. Thank you!

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
The Dell & Schaefer law firm provides very professional service. Their fee agreement is straight forward and reasonable. The firm also provides very nice personal service. I often forgot they had other clients since they responded quickly to questions. I felt like I had their undivided attention on the phone. We were never interrupted by pagers or other calls coming through. Once, as hurricane Sandy moved up the east coast, I had trouble reaching my attorney. The firm went out of its way on a weekend to make sure we were able to communicate. Dell & Schaefer is large enough to have a division dedicated to physicians and attorneys. This special interest is quite nice, as our policies often have unique provisions and requests. It is nice to work with attorneys who are familiar with the quirks of our profession. They seem to understand it is difficult to leave a career which many of us spent decades to build.

I was referred to Steven Dell at a very challenging time in my life and he and his firm were very kind and considerate in handling my case and bringing it to a positive result. I will always be thankful to Steven and Greg Dell for their help in my situation.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
Their caring and professionalism is tough to beat.

I first tried to work with insurance company that I had the policy with for over ten years. They blocked every way they could to stop me from getting my benefits. Attorney Steven Dell and his firm helped me from day one and in a very short time guided me through the mess and I started to receive my benefits. I’ve been with Dell & Schaefer for two and half years and they continue to help and support me when the insurance company starts to try and stop the payments to me.

Why would you recommend Dell Disability Lawyers?
They are there when you need them and always answer your calls and questions.

What could we do to improve?
Not one thing.