Mehr Fairbanks Trial Lawyers
Why hire a long-term disability & erisa attorney
Most employer-provided disability insurance is governed by ERISA, a federal law with strict procedural requirements and limited remedies. An attorney ensures your administrative appeal is properly developed — because ERISA courts typically won't consider evidence not submitted during the appeal.
Disability insurers routinely deny or terminate legitimate claims using shifting definitions of disability, surveillance, independent medical examinations, and paper reviews by doctors who never examine you. An attorney knows these tactics and how to counter them.
ERISA has short appeal deadlines — typically 60 to 180 days after a denial. Missing these deadlines can permanently waive your right to benefits. An attorney tracks deadlines and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
Building a strong disability appeal requires assembling medical records, functional capacity evaluations, vocational expert opinions, and detailed statements from treating physicians. An attorney knows exactly what evidence the insurer's reviewers look for.
Frequently asked about long-term disability & erisa
How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
Fee structures vary by practice area and case complexity. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations. Common arrangements include contingency (you pay only if you win), hourly, flat fee, or retainer. Ask about fee arrangements during your first consultation.
When should I contact an attorney?
Earlier is almost always better. Many legal matters have strict deadlines, and evidence and witness recollections can degrade quickly. A short call before deadlines run is usually free and can clarify whether you have a case.
What should I bring to my first consultation?
Bring any documents related to your matter: contracts, correspondence, photos, police or medical reports, identification, and a brief written timeline of events. The more organized your information, the more an attorney can tell you during the first meeting.
How long will my case take?
Timelines vary widely. Simple matters can resolve in weeks; complex litigation can take years. During your consultation, ask the attorney for a realistic timeline based on the specifics of your situation.