Disability Claim Denied? Protect yourself – Ask these questions before you decide on a lawyer

If your disability claim has been denied, then the next step is to seek out the right lawyer who can guide you through the process and successfully resolve your claim.

At first, choosing the right lawyer may feel like a taunting task – but when equipped with a little knowledge and the right questions to ask, the process becomes a little easier.

Do you offer free consultations and free case assessments?

Most reputable disability claim lawyers in the Toronto area offer free consultations and free claim assessments. This will allow you to meet with a variety of lawyers at no extra cost to you. Ask potential lawyers to review your claim. Ask them if your claim is valid and if they foresee any complications. Ask them how they plan to prove your claim and what medical assessments you can expect to attend.

Does your firm specialize in disability insurance law?  Or is it just a part of your general practice?

The laws surrounding disability insurance claims are complex. Look for a lawyer who is up to date on the most recent changes to regulations and can give you an advantage when navigating your claim through any potential legal complications. Ask what financial resources the firm has in place that will insure that your claim is prepared properly and receives the attention and dedication it deserves.

What litigation experience do you have with disability claims similar to mine?

Experience matters. Ask potential lawyers about success ratios with claim similar to yours. Ask if those claims settled in or out of court. Ask how much those claims settled for and what your claim is worth. How long did those claims take to resolve? Ask the lawyer “If push comes to shove” are you willing to defend my rights in court or will I be pressured into taking a low ball offer provided by the defense.

Will you be the lawyer representing my disability claim?

Open, honest, compassionate communication is important. Without good communication it’s hard to trust that your claim is going in the right direction and is getting the attention it deserves.  Look for a lawyer who is patient and proactive and understands the pressures your under. If you have met with a lawyer that you like and you feel comfortable with – make sure that he/she will be the lawyer actually representing your claim. Ask them how they will be available to you when questions and concerns arise.