Suffering a disability can be heartbreaking and a major disruption in life. That is why it is crucial to find the best disability lawyer to assist you in getting the benefits you deserve from your insurance company. Unfortunately, getting a reliable lawyer who can push his way to ensure your claim is approved is a daunting task. Not every attorney who claims to be a professional understands how various legal sectors like long-term disability benefits work. If you have been disabled and want to file a long-term disability claim with your insurance company, you want to ensure the Chicago disability attorney you hire will back you up to get the benefits that will cater to various expenses in your life. The following are five crucial questions you must ask the attorney.
Do you have a physical office?
Asking the lawyer whether they have an office and location may seem obvious. However, knowing if they have a physical office is crucial to know if you can meet them. Check their website to see their address. Remember to ask them during your meeting if they have not posted an address. Some law firms operate nationwide, so you may never meet their lawyers face-to-face. It may be a good idea to work with an attorney who is familiar with your area. They might have connections with other attorneys or judges who may facilitate your application.
How do you charge for your services?
The way attorneys charge for their services differs. Some go for a contingency fee, while others charge hourly. When you talk to your disability insurance attorney, ask them how they charge their services. Make sure you provide a written agreement if you agree to the method.
How many cases have you settled out-of-court?
Avoiding the lengthy court process by resolving the claim out-of-court can be a good idea. So, ask your lawyer about their settled claims without going to court. The attorney may be your best partner if they have many such cases. However, they may resolve to take the matter to court if they think you are not getting the benefits you deserve.
Do you specialize in disability insurance?
Interpreting disability law is not easy. That means the person must have thoroughly studied and applied the subject in several instances. Some lawyers work on general cases, while others specialize. It will be a good idea to go for an attorney who specializes in short-term and long-term disability since they understand the nuances of the insurance and the benefits applicable. You can ask for help from your family or friends to find a reliable long-term disability lawyer with experience in these claims.
How do you communicate with your clients?
Another crucial thing to ask your attorney is how they communicate with their clients. Some lawyers respond well to calls or texts, while others rely on their staff. If you are not satisfied with their communication, looking for another professional may be a good idea.
Summary
It is prudent to ask your notary these five questions to confirm they are right to help you push for the insurance benefits. Ensure the professional has experience handling long-term disability claims and can provide the best presentation.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
