Hiring a long-term disability attorney is your best bet for securing private disability benefits. The law related to ERISA, a federal law that governs many private disability claims, is extremely complex, and having a good attorney in your corner can make or break your case. But what should you look for to make sure that you’re getting the best representation possible? Here are some questions that you can ask when hiring a long-term disability lawyer in Arizona, as well as what you should be looking for from the answers.
How experienced is the lawyer in federal court?
In the event you exhaust your administrative appeals and your benefits are still denied by your employer or the insurance company, your only recourse might be to file a federal lawsuit. Litigating ERISA cases can be extremely complex, and the strength of a lawsuit is often dependent on the administrative record developed during appeal. Some attorneys will readily accept your case on administrative appeal but do not have the experience or knowledge to litigate your case in federal court should they lose the appeal. This should be a red flag, and you should consult with other attorneys. The administrative appeals process and litigation process are inextricably tied in ERISA cases; if an attorney does not have the competence to litigate your case, then they have no business representing you during the administrative appeal. Do not be afraid to advocate for yourself and ask about the lawyer’s practical litigation experience, including how many ERISA cases he or she has filed in federal court in the past year.
Does the lawyer focus on ERISA law?
If you are speaking with a lawyer who is advertising ERISA cases along with several other areas of law, then consider whether the lawyer is actually focused on ERISA or just dabbling. ERISA and insurance bad faith are highly complex, ever-evolving areas of law. Practicing in ERISA requires dynamic knowledge of insurance companies, the latest developments in medical conditions, pertinent case law, and so much more. Sandstone Law Group stays focused on ERISA and insurance bad faith, so that we can be the BEST in these disciplines. If your lawyer is advertising for dog bite injuries, wrongful death, or other areas of law along with ERISA, then consider this a potential red flag and worth investigating further before you hire that lawyer for our disability matter.
Does the lawyer practice locally?
When you’re looking to hire a long-term disability lawyer, it is a good idea to look for someone who practices locally. Local attorneys know regional experts, have insight into judicial custom and preferences, and have developed relationships with firms and attorneys representing the insurance companies here at home. Additionally, local attorneys may be more accessible for in-person contact, and they will be in a position to litigate your case without the need for securing local counsel first. Before hiring an out-of-state firm to represent you, look for local firms, such as Sandstone Law Group, with extensive ERISA experience.
When you’re hiring a Long-Term Disability attorney, don’t be afraid to ask questions
When you’re looking for an ERISA or disability insurance bad faith attorney, don’t be afraid to ask questions. This process is difficult and complex, and you deserve to have the best representation possible. At Sandstone Law Group, our ERISA and bad faith-focused attorneys have extensive experience appealing and litigating these cases in the state of Arizona. We are proud to practice locally and provide our services to the Arizona community. We are passionate about helping our clients secure the benefits that they deserve. If you are dealing with an ERISA or bad faith-related disability insurance issue, contact us here for a free consultation.