We often hear of long-term disabilities resulting from the negligence of others. More often than not, these situations result in lawsuits. If you were the victim of a serious accident or injury that was not your fault, would you know what to do? Could a long-term disability lawyer be an asset? Learn some valuable information on when you may or may not need a long-term disability lawyer.
What Does a Long-Term Disability Lawyer Do & How Do They Help?
Long-term disability lawyers have experience with every step of a disability claim. They have the knowledge and experience needed to gain access to medical records quickly, interview witnesses and initiate court proceedings. Unless you have personal experience with the law, you can easily make a mistake that could not only slow your case down but could also decrease your chance of winning the case.
Your long-term disability lawyer will also be there to advise you every step of the way. Without going into every legal or medical detail, a long-term disability lawyer can wade through the mounds of paperwork and go through the proper channels to help you win a disability claim. They have access or can get access to areas that you, as a client or patient, cannot.
When Should a Long-Term Disability Lawyer Be Called?
If you suspect or already know you have a long-term disability, you should call a long-term disability lawyer immediately. Many people wait until they’ve been denied a claim before contacting a lawyer, and this can slow the process down even more. By contacting a lawyer early in the process, the lawyer can be on top of things when they’re still fresh and new.
The attorney get “get the ball rolling” immediately, which generally results in less legwork and an earlier settlement. It’s much easier to get a claim approved the first time than it is to win it on an appeal. Having a long-term disability lawyer working for you increases your chances of winning your initial case.
What Do They Cost?
Unlike many other types of lawyers, long-term disability lawyers generally do not charge anything upfront. If they do, it may be only a small fee. They work more on a contingency basis. In other words, they get a certain percentage, which may be twenty-five to thirty percent, of whatever settlement you receive. If you don’t get a settlement, they don’t typically charge anything.
Are There Disadvantages?
There really aren’t any disadvantages to hiring a long-term disability lawyer. Because they don’t generally charge a fee upfront, you’re not going to be out any money. If they believe you have a good case, they’re going to take it because it’s also an opportunity for them to also earn money.
If they feel you don’t have a case, they’ll also inform you of that so you won’t waste your own time or money initiating your own case. Worst case scenario is that you won’t have a legitimate case. Best case scenario is that the lawyer believes you have a case and will act on your behalf and help you get what you deserve as quickly as possible.
