Our team at Disability Law Group, led by attorney Erika Riggs, recently secured a life-changing victory for a 60-year-old veteran from Flint, Michigan. This Army veteran, who served as a cannon crewman and field artillery specialist from 1982 to 1985, faced numerous health challenges, with PTSD being the most debilitating. After years of struggling with his condition, he now receives 100% service-connected disability benefits for PTSD alone, resulting in over $60,000 in back pay, along with increased monthly benefits.

Initially, the veteran faced significant hurdles in his pursuit of justice. His own doctors at the VA refused to provide the necessary nexus letters and Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) that could support his claim. Without these crucial documents, his chances of securing the benefits he rightfully deserved were severely diminished. This is a common struggle for many veterans, as obtaining supportive medical evidence is often a critical step in the claims process.

Understanding the importance of this evidence, Erika Riggs and our dedicated team went above and beyond. We assisted the veteran in finding independent doctors who were willing to review his case, understand his struggles, and prepare the necessary nexus letters and DBQs. These documents played a pivotal role in proving the connection between his military service and his PTSD, ultimately leading to a 100% disability rating.

This success story is not just a testament to our team’s legal expertise but also to our commitment to supporting veterans every step of the way. This veteran’s experience with us was so positive that he now regularly refers fellow veterans to Disability Law Group, knowing firsthand the difference our comprehensive support can make.

PTSD Among Veterans: A Growing Concern

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a significant issue among veterans, particularly those who have served in combat or other high-stress environments. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, between 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom suffer from PTSD in a given year. For Vietnam veterans, the number is even higher, with about 30% having experienced PTSD at some point in their lives.

The criteria for a 100% PTSD rating from the VA are stringent and reflect the severity of the condition. Veterans must demonstrate total occupational and social impairment due to PTSD, which may include symptoms such as persistent hallucinations or delusions, grossly inappropriate behavior, danger of hurting oneself or others, and memory loss for names of close relatives, one’s own occupation, or one’s own name.
In this case, our client’s PTSD symptoms were so severe that they met these criteria, leaving him unable to work or maintain social relationships. The 100% rating recognizes the profound impact PTSD has had on his life and ensures he receives the maximum level of benefits available.

Supporting Veterans Beyond the Claims Process

At Disability Law Group, we understand that securing benefits is just one part of the journey for our clients. We are committed to helping veterans navigate the complexities of the VA system, from finding supportive medical professionals to ensuring they receive the care and compensation they deserve. If you or someone you know is struggling with a VA disability claim, especially for conditions like PTSD, our team is here to help.

At Disability Law Group, we are dedicated to securing the benefits our clients deserve, and we are proud to share a recent case win that resulted in more than $100,000 in back-pay benefits with the help of Attorney Erika Riggs, law clerk Alanis Smith, and our incredible team. This win highlights our commitment and expertise. Our client, a 51-year-old veteran from Sterling Heights, Michigan, recently received a fully favorable decision on his application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, following a recent hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), bringing much-needed financial relief, Medicare insurance coverage, and recognition of his severe disabilities.

Our client’s journey began when he filed for SSDI benefits on January 10, 2022, alleging disability dating back to September 30, 2018. At that time, he was 45 years old, with a distinguished career in the Navy as a senior petty officer and recruiter. However, his service and subsequent health issues left him unable to work. His medical history is extensive and complex, including multiple impairments that have severely impacted his quality of life and functional capacity.

Among the most significant of his impairments are a C4-C7 fusion, chronic pain in his neck, back, and hips, and severe radiculopathy affecting his lower and upper extremities. His condition is so debilitating that he is 100% service-connected through the Department of Veterans Affairs, a testament to the severity of his disabilities. Over the years, he has faced numerous challenges, including frequent falls, constant pain that disrupts his sleep, and an inability to perform even basic activities of daily living without assistance.

The evidence supporting his claim was overwhelming, documenting years of medical treatments, consultations, and diagnostic tests that highlighted the progressive nature of his impairments. From MRIs showing disc protrusions and spinal stenosis to consultations confirming his limited mobility and chronic pain, the medical records painted a clear picture of a man whose life had been dramatically altered by his conditions.

One particularly compelling piece of evidence was the Medical Source Statement from his physician assistant, which detailed the extent of his limitations. She reported that our client could not sit, stand, or walk for more than two hours in an eight-hour workday and would need frequent breaks due to pain. Additionally, his impairments would cause him to be off-task for more than 25% of the workday, with frequent absences expected due to his health issues.

Given the overwhelming evidence and the severity of his impairments, we requested an on-record fully favorable decision, arguing that our client’s disabilities precluded him from performing any substantial gainful activity. We emphasized his inability to sustain work due to his pain, balance issues, and cognitive impairments resulting from sleep disturbances and chronic discomfort.

We are pleased to report that the judge granted our request, issuing a fully favorable decision without the need for a hearing. This outcome not only provides our client with the financial support he needs but also affirms the reality of his disabilities and the challenges he faces daily.

This case is a powerful reminder of the importance of thorough preparation and the presentation of compelling evidence in disability claims. At Disability Law Group, we are committed to fighting for our clients and ensuring they receive the benefits they have earned. If you or a loved one are struggling with a disability and need assistance with your claim, our team is here to help.

At Disability Law Group, we understand that the journey to securing Social Security Disability benefits can be long and challenging, but we never give up on our clients. We are thrilled to share the story of a recent victory that exemplifies the dedication and persistence of our team. Attorney Erika Riggs recently secured a favorable decision for our 55-year-old client from Carleton, Michigan, after somewhat of a legal battle that included multiple hearings and an Appeals Council review.

Our client initially applied for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) on November 30, 2020, alleging disability dating back to March 3, 2008. He has a high school education and a work history as a roller setter and saw operator, jobs that are generally considered light to medium in exertion and unskilled to semi-skilled in nature. Unfortunately, a combination of severe mental health impairments, including dysthymic disorder, PTSD, bipolar I disorder, and antisocial personality disorder, rendered him unable to maintain employment.

After his initial hearing in September 2022, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) issued a favorable decision. However, the Appeals Council reviewed the case and remanded it, stating that there was insufficient evidence to support the ALJ’s conclusion. This setback could have been disheartening, but Attorney Riggs remained steadfast in her commitment to our client’s case.

During the second hearing, Attorney Riggs effectively cross-examined a Medical Expert (ME) who had reviewed the client’s extensive medical history. The ME testified that due to the claimant’s fluctuating symptoms and the severity of his bad days, he would likely be absent from work at least two days each month. This level of absenteeism, as confirmed by the Vocational Expert (VE), would preclude him from maintaining any form of employment. The ALJ agreed, once again finding our client disabled.

Our client’s medical records paint a vivid picture of his struggles. He has been receiving consistent treatment at Southwest Solutions for over a year, where he has been diagnosed with severe mood swings, depression, paranoia, anxiety, and psychosis. His symptoms include periods of isolation, talking to himself, fatigue, aggressive behavior, and difficulty interacting with others. Despite regular adjustments to his medications, his conditions have not improved significantly, and he continues to experience significant challenges in daily life.

The consultative examiner’s report, which was a focal point of the post-hearing proceedings, initially downplayed the severity of our client’s impairments by suggesting only mild limitations. However, the examiner also noted that our client would require external support and job training to cope with his mental health issues, which is inherently work-preclusive. Attorney Riggs skillfully highlighted the inconsistencies in the examiner’s report, pointing out the disconnect between the suggested mild limitations and the need for substantial workplace support.

Ultimately, Attorney Riggs successfully argued that our client’s mental impairments meet the criteria for Listing 12.04, which covers mood disorders, including bipolar disorder. His symptoms, such as severe depression, lack of energy, and suicidal thoughts, have led to marked limitations in his ability to concentrate, interact with others, and manage daily tasks. Additionally, the need for external support and job training would render him unable to sustain employment.

After thorough consideration of all the evidence, the new ALJ issued a favorable decision, acknowledging the severity of our client’s conditions and granting him the benefits he so desperately needed.

This case is a powerful reminder that perseverance and attention to detail can make all the difference in securing a positive outcome. At Disability Law Group, we are committed to fighting for our clients every step of the way, no matter how long or difficult the journey may be. If you or someone you love is struggling to obtain Social Security Disability benefits, our team is here to help.

 

Disability Law Group proudly announces a significant victory achieved by Attorney Farrah Abona in securing disability benefits for a 52-year-old client diagnosed with Chiari Malformation, Type 1. The case, which had previously faced multiple denials, culminated in a fully favorable decision at the hearing phase, resulting in over $72,000 in back pay and ongoing benefits.

The client, a dedicated professional with a lifelong career in Human Resources, began experiencing debilitating symptoms, including severe headaches, neck stiffness, and pain. Despite undergoing surgery intended to alleviate these symptoms, her condition worsened, leading to chronic daily headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, and brain fog. The impact of these symptoms on her ability to work was profound, leaving her unable to continue her career.

The client initially applied for disability benefits but was met with denials at both the initial application and reconsideration phases. The complexity of her medical condition and the failure of surgery to resolve her symptoms posed significant challenges in securing the benefits she desperately needed.

Attorney Farrah Abona and the team at Disability Law Group meticulously reviewed the client’s medical records, work history, and the progression of her symptoms. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive and compelling presentation, Attorney Abona outlined the client’s extensive career, the onset and worsening of her condition, and the unsuccessful surgical intervention.

Through detailed evidence and a persuasive argument, Attorney Abona effectively demonstrated that the client’s condition had not improved post-surgery, as evidenced by the worsening symptoms documented in her medical records. This thorough approach was pivotal in challenging the initial denials.

The turning point in the case occurred during the hearing phase, where Attorney Abona’s presentation of the client’s situation convinced the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) of the severity and impact of her condition. The ALJ’s fully favorable decision not only secured over $72,000 in back pay for the client but also ensured she would receive ongoing benefits to support her in the future.

This case exemplifies the dedication and expertise of Disability Law Group in advocating for clients facing complex medical conditions. Attorney Farrah Abona’s success in this case underscores the firm’s commitment to achieving just outcomes for those in need.

For more information on how Disability Law Group can assist with disability claims, contact us today.

Attorney Ryan Cowley Secures Victory for Veteran Battling Multiple Service-Connected Claims

Disability Law Group achieved a remarkable victory on June 11, 2024, as Attorney Ryan Cowley successfully overturned a seven-year denial at the Board of Veteran’s Appeals. The case centered on a Veteran who had been relentlessly fighting since 2017 to establish service connection for hammer toes, right foot hallux valgus, lung cancer, adenocarcinoma, and mesothelioma.

Initially, the Veteran’s claims had languished in the system, pending review with the Board of Veteran’s Appeals. The complex nature of the medical conditions involved, compounded by the evolving standards of proof required for service connection, posed significant challenges.

Disability Law Group undertook a meticulous approach, leveraging their profound expertise in veteran’s benefits law. Attorney Ryan Cowley and his team embarked on a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the case. This included gathering additional supporting evidence such as updated medical research, statements from relevant medical experts, and a crucial nexus letter linking the Veteran’s conditions to their military service.

The pivotal turning point in the case came with the presentation of compelling evidence meticulously compiled by Disability Law Group. The evidence not only substantiated the Veteran’s claims but also addressed any doubts raised by the Board of Veteran’s Appeals. This thorough and detailed approach underscored the dedication and expertise of Disability Law Group in advocating for veterans’ rights.

As a result of Disability Law Group’s efforts, the Board of Veteran’s Appeals ruled decisively in favor of the Veteran. This victory resolved years of uncertainty and hardship, granting the Veteran the long-overdue recognition and benefits deserved for their service-connected conditions.

The successful resolution of this case highlights Disability Law Group’s unwavering commitment to serving veterans and their families. Attorney Ryan Cowley’s dedication, combined with the firm’s deep understanding of veteran’s benefits law, resulted in a significant milestone for their client. This case serves as a beacon of hope for veterans navigating the complex path of securing rightful benefits, emphasizing Disability Law Group’s role as a formidable advocate in disability law.

For more information on how Disability Law Group can assist with veteran’s benefits claims,
contact us today

Recently, Disability Law Group helped a woman from Redford, Michigan, to obtain Social Security Disability (“SSD”) benefits after a long career in school administration. The woman had struggled with osteoarthritis (“OA”) for many years and, for the past several years, had only been able to carry out her job duties with the support and assistance of her co-workers and adoring students.

However, as her OA worsened, even the helping hands she received were no longer enough, and the client realized she could no longer maintain any full-time employment. At the same time, the claimant tragically lost her husband to illness, who had provided her with immeasurable love and support. The claimant felt alone, anguished, and continued to have severe and constant joint pain throughout her body.

Disability Law Group provided the client with empathy, support, and diligent representation to apply and win her disability benefits. All of her medical records were obtained, as well as supportive statements from her treating doctors and mental health providers, and attorney Jordan Leff guided the client through the process every step of the way.

When a hearing was scheduled before an Administrative Law Judge (“ALJ”), Mr. Leff prepared and filed a detailed legal brief, setting out the client’s treatment history, and explaining how the symptoms of her OA prevented her from sustaining any full-time employment existing in the national economy.

At the hearing, Mr. Leff led the client through a series of questions to provide further direct evidence to the ALJ as to the pain, stiffness, and discomfort she experiences on a daily basis, and how it creates severe work-related limitations. The ALJ ultimately agreed, rapidly producing a Fully Favorable decision!

Achieving 100% Permanent and Total Disability Rating for a Veteran

In a significant victory for our client, Disability Law Group successfully secured a 100% Permanent and Total disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) after a prolonged five-year appeals process. This achievement underscores the dedication and expertise of our team, particularly in navigating complex VA procedures and leveraging recent policy developments to the client’s advantage.

Our client, a dedicated veteran, initiated his claim for disability benefits in August 2019. Despite the severity of his condition, his initial Rating Decision in 2019 granted only a 10% rating, with his PTSD claim being outright denied. This insufficient rating failed to recognize the full extent of his disabilities.

When our client sought assistance from Disability Law Group in November 2022, the deadline for appealing the 2019 Rating Decision had long passed. Under normal circumstances, this would have resulted in a forfeiture of his right to appeal and the need to file a new claim, potentially losing years of retroactive benefits.

Attorney Jason Pearson, renowned for his meticulous attention to VA processes and recent policy updates, identified a critical opportunity. Recognizing the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on veterans’ ability to meet deadlines, he invoked a special provision allowing for an extension of the appeal period for good cause.

Jason meticulously prepared a request, presenting compelling evidence of how the pandemic had directly affected our client’s ability to meet the initial deadline. His argument highlighted not only the disruptions caused by COVID-19 but also the client’s persistent efforts to comply with VA requirements amidst these challenges.

In addition to addressing procedural hurdles, Jason Pearson engaged with appropriate medical professionals to obtain the necessary medical evidence to support the veteran’s claims. This included securing a private medical evaluation that conclusively demonstrated the client’s entitlement to a 100% rating for PTSD. This medical nexus opinion was crucial in establishing the service connection required for the claim.

In January 2024, the VA granted the veteran service connection for PTSD at the 70% rate, with an effective date of December 2023. While this was a step in the right direction, it did not fully reflect the severity of the client’s condition or acknowledge the initial filing date.

Attorney Jason Pearson immediately filed another appeal for a Higher-Level Review. He engaged directly with a Decision Review Officer, meticulously pointing out the evidence supporting a higher rating and an earlier effective date. Jason’s thorough presentation and advocacy were instrumental in highlighting the veteran’s long-standing entitlement.

In March 2024, the VA granted the veteran a 100% rating for PTSD, with an effective date retroactively set to August 2019, when the veteran’s claim was first initiated. This decision not only recognized the full extent of the client’s disability but also secured significant retroactive benefits.

This outcome ensures that our client receives the full spectrum of benefits he is entitled to, significantly improving his quality of life. The retroactive benefits dating back to August 2019 provide financial stability and peace of mind after years of uncertainty and hardship.

This case exemplifies the importance of staying abreast of policy changes and the impact of expert legal representation in the realm of veterans’ disability law. At Disability Law Group, we are committed to fighting for the rights of our clients, ensuring they receive the benefits they deserve, no matter how complex or prolonged the journey may be.

If you or a loved one are facing challenges with a VA disability claim, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Contact Disability Law Group to ensure your rights are protected and to secure the benefits you have earned through your service.

Overcoming Adversity through Dedicated Support and Legal Advocacy

In March 2022, our office received a call from a young man, age 30, the claimant, and his mother, seeking assistance with his claim for Social Security Disability benefits. The claimant had previously worked as an engineer and made significant earnings in a short amount of time. Unfortunately, a very traumatic event occurred in the claimant’s life, sparking a series of severe mental health disorders, including schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety. The claimant’s mother eventually became his power of attorney. The claimant tried to work and even go back to school to continue his education but was unable to keep up with the demands of school or work due to his impairments.

Our office immediately recognized the severity of his conditions and how much of an impact it had on his life and the life of his family. Prior to seeking representation at our office, he had applied for benefits on his own and was denied at the Initial Application level. Attorney Farrah Abona from our office took over the case and appealed it to the Hearing Level. Once at the hearing level, his case was assigned to an Administrative Law Judge at the Livonia Hearing Office.

Now at the hearing level, Farrah carefully drafted a brief on his behalf and made a Listing Argument (12.03, Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders) and cited each and every instance documented in the medical records that would fall under this Listing, including delusions and hallucinations, disorganized thinking and speech, and difficulties in adapting or managing oneself. Additionally, we made the argument that the claimant could not perform the demands of his past work or other full-time work at any level. Furthermore, we detailed how his limitations were so severe that he required significant help from his mother to address his most basic needs. The Administrative Law Judge agreed with our position and issued a Fully Favorable Decision, granting the claimant social security disability benefits going back to 2020, totaling over $95,000. Furthermore, with the benefits going back over two years, our client was immediately entitled to Medicare benefits.

Our attorneys and staff specialize in disability benefits, and we will fight to help you win every benefit you deserve. We provide free consultations to better understand your case and provide you knowledge as to your rights and the benefits you may be entitled to. Whether you have a mental health condition, other conditions, or a combination of impairments, we can help you understand your options and win the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation.

 

Disability Law Group recently assisted a 47-year-old man who faced a myriad of challenges due to severe back and hip pain, compounded by mental health issues, including depression. Despite his struggles, he was denied benefits multiple times, plunging him into extreme hardship and eventual homelessness. For this claimant, each day was a battle against excruciating physical pain and overwhelming mental anguish. His inability to work worsened his financial situation, leaving him unable to afford proper medical care or a stable living environment. Denied access to essential benefits, he found himself in a state of hopelessness.

Enter Disability Law Group. Recognizing the urgency of his situation, the dedicated team at DLG tirelessly fought to bring his case to the forefront. With unwavering determination, they navigated the complexities of the legal system, advocating fiercely on his behalf. After numerous setbacks and hurdles, the case finally reached a judge. Through the relentless efforts of DLG Law Firm, his plea for assistance was heard and understood. Recognizing the severity of his conditions and the impact on his life, the judge ruled in John’s favor, granting him the benefits he so desperately needed. For our claimant, this ruling was more than just a legal victory—it was a lifeline. With the support he needed finally within reach, he was able to secure stable housing and access to vital medical treatments. The burden of homelessness lifted, he could now focus on his medical treatments, rebuilding his life, and reclaiming his sense of dignity.

If you or someone you know is suffering from any physical impairments or mental health issues, contact us today for your free consultation. Our attorneys and staff specialize strictly in disability benefits, and we will fight to help you win every benefit you deserve. We will work with you, alongside your doctors, to ensure all necessary evidence is received. You can rely on our team at Disability Law Group from start to finish to provide you with expert advice, compassionate representation, and the benefits you deserve.

Empowering Recovery: A Tale of Triumph in Disability Advocacy

Disability Law Group recently received a decision approving our client’s case for Social Security Disability (‘SSD’) benefits. She is a young woman from Roseville, Michigan, who was involved in a terrible work accident in 2015. For nearly ten years, she struggled with the aftermath of her traumatic brain injury she sustained at work, and was getting no help or benefits from Workers’ Compensation nor Social Security Disability despite trying to apply on her own. Her symptoms included severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, balance issues, neck pain, eye strain, difficulty with word-finding and concentration, memory loss, anxiety, and more.

Traumatic head and brain injuries can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and typically involve many different tests and the collaboration of various specialists. As a result, insurance is critical to help cover testing and treatment, as well as financial and family support to help in the process. She underwent countless neurocognitive, neuro-visual, and other forms of testing to help properly diagnose her conditions stemming from her traumatic brain injury. Despite her serious symptoms lasting for many years, without much relief, she continued to receive a denial for any benefits and financial support, and began to feel helpless and hopeless.

In 2022, she was told by her mental health therapist that she should contact Disability Law Group for help with Social Security Disability benefits. Upon contacting our office, she was met with empathy and support. We got to work right away, helping with all documents, obtaining all medical records, preparing and filing the appeal, and guiding her at each step of the way. Attorney Erika Riggs, a partner at Disability Law Group, represented this client and prepared her for her disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (‘ALJ’) in November of 2023.

Prior to the hearing, Ms. Riggs prepared a legal brief, outlining her theory for this case, and how the combination of her client’s health problems since her traumatic brain injury in 2015 would preclude her ability to perform not only her past work, but any other work that exists in the national economy. She carefully summarized the key components of her case, including how her chronic and severe pain, mental and cognitive decline, issues with balance and memory, among others, would preclude her ability to be present at work and maintain the level of concentration and focus required of even unskilled work on a sustained basis since 2015 and through the present. The ALJ agreed and, one month later, we received a decision that read: Fully Favorable!contac

The decision found our client to have been disabled as of November 2015, the date of her traumatic brain injury, and before her work credits expired in 2020, resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in back-pay benefits and immediate entitlement to Medicare. This decision was a major victory for this client in many ways, including the insurance she would now be entitled to that provided greater coverage for her treatment to help her on her road to recovery. Not only does she have peace of mind in knowing that she is now financially able to obtain the care she needs and deserves, but she described feeling finally heard as if a heavy weight had been lifted from her shoulders.

Whether you’re dealing with a physical, mental, or cognitive health condition, or a combination thereof, you do not have to go through the process alone. At Disability Law Group, disability is all we do, and we will fight alongside you to help win every benefit deserved. Our Disability Attorneys are not only experts in the field of disability law, but we care about each and every client, and putting them in the best position to be awarded benefits. At Disability Law Group, every client matters.