5 Ways a Lawyer Can Help Individuals with a Disability
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Living with a disability often comes with various hurdles around financial and legal problems. Ranging from benefits to being unable to acquire accommodations at work to dealing with cases of personal injury, having an able lawyer by their side can make all the difference. These legal professionals can find their way through complicated systems and ensure your rights are protected. The following are five situations where a lawyer can assist you.
Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits
It is a long and frustrating process to get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Several people who have applied have had their applications denied due to filling out paperwork inappropriately or failing to provide correct medical records. A lawyer can obtain the required medical records, complete the forms appropriately, and ensure the application is qualified under all Social Security Administration (SSA) standards.
If the initial application is denied, your attorney may appeal on your behalf. The attorney can bring the case before an administrative law judge, increasing the chances of a favorable ruling. Chances of approval are much higher with the assistance of legal representation, particularly with appeals.
Assisting Workplace Accommodation and Rights
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), disabled employees have the right to fair accommodation in the workplace. However, the majority of employees report being discriminated against or opposed when they request the accommodation they require.
An attorney can help negotiate with the company, compel compliance with the law, and make an EEOC complaint if necessary. Legal experts help unjustly fired victims as they can prosecute aggrieved employers who contravene ADA legislation, compensate the client, and reinstate them at work if the case warrants.
Handling Personal Injury Claims
If injured in an accident, recovering a suitable settlement from insurers will not be easy. Knowing when to hire a car accident lawyer is crucial after an accident. They can help when:
Suffering severe injuries
Disputed liability
An insurer denies or delays your claim
When multiple parties are involved.
The settlement is too low
They will gather evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and accident reports, to strengthen your case. A skilled lawyer will also represent you in court when necessary.
Estate Planning and Guardianship Service
Most disabled people require long-term financial planning, especially if they are on government benefits. Lawyers may set up special needs trusts that retain property and allow people to qualify for Medicaid and SSI. Trust allows individuals to be economically independent without losing advantageous benefits.
For those who lack legal and financial decision-making capacity, lawyers can assist in drafting powers of attorney or guardianships. Legal protection safeguards individuals' wishes and rights so their chosen family member or advocate may make the best choices.
Fighting for Housing and Accessibility Rights
Disabled individuals must not be discriminated against or denied housing facilities. The lawyer will make sure that the owners of the real estate and the housing authority comply with the provisions of the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. If the landlord declines accommodations or turns down applicants on the grounds of disability, legal experts can object and sue the landlord.
Endnote
Disability cases in court may be daunting, but the right lawyer will help make things easier. From benefit receipt to discrimination and personal injury proceedings, lawyers ensure people with disabilities are accorded the protection and support they need and are entitled to receive. A lawyer is an excellent asset under most circumstances, ensuring that rights are protected and clients get all the benefits they deserve.