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Living with a disability can be challenging, especially when faced with the complexities of securing the benefits you deserve. At the Ortiz Law Firm, we are committed to helping Texas residents obtain long-term disability (LTD) insurance and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Our experienced legal team is here to advocate for your rights.
As a licensed attorney admitted to the State Bar of Texas, disability attorney Nick Ortiz represents clients throughout Texas. He brings extensive experience and legal knowledge to each case, ensuring personalized and effective representation.
Texas Long-Term Disability Insurance Claims
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance provides financial support when an illness or injury prevents you from working. However, insurance companies can deny or delay valid claims, making legal assistance essential.
At the Ortiz Law Firm, we assist Texas clients with:
- Administrative Appeals: If your LTD claim is denied, we will manage the appeals process, gathering critical medical evidence, submitting necessary documents, and building a strong case on your behalf.
- Filing Lawsuits: If your LTD insurer continues to deny your claim after an appeal, we can file a lawsuit under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) or other relevant laws to obtain the benefits you’re entitled to.
Texas Specific LTD Laws and Court Jurisdictions
In Texas, long-term disability insurance policies are subject to state regulation. As of 2011, Texas law prohibits discretionary clauses in insurance policies, including disability insurance. Discretionary clauses previously gave insurers the authority to interpret policy terms and determine eligibility for benefits, often resulting in unfair denials. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) found these clauses to be unjust and deceptive, leading to their prohibition.
Federal Courts in Texas
Understanding the appropriate jurisdiction is crucial when filing lawsuits related to LTD claims, as it determines the venue and procedural rules applicable to your case. Texas is divided into four federal judicial districts, each of which includes several divisions:
- Northern District of Texas: Covers 100 counties, including major divisions in Dallas, Fort Worth, Amarillo, Abilene, Lubbock, San Angelo, and Wichita Falls.
- Eastern District of Texas: Includes the Beaumont, Lufkin, Marshall, Sherman, Texarkana, and Tyler divisions.
- Southern District of Texas: Includes the Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen, and Laredo divisions.
- Western District of Texas: Includes divisions in Austin, Del Rio, El Paso, Midland-Odessa, Pecos, San Antonio, and Waco.
Decisions of all four district courts may be appealed to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Social Security Disability Claims in Texas
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be complicated and overwhelming. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies a significant number of initial applications, but with proper legal guidance, you can increase your chances of approval.
We assist Texas clients with:
- Initial Applications: We prepare and submit comprehensive SSDI applications, ensuring that all necessary medical documentation is included to strengthen your case.
- Requests for Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, we identify weaknesses in the decision and provide additional evidence to strengthen your case on appeal.
- Administrative Hearings: If your claim proceeds to a hearing, we represent you before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), presenting a well-prepared argument to advocate for the benefits you deserve.
You Don’t Need a Local Attorney for ERISA or Social Security Disability Claims
A common misconception is that you must hire a local attorney for ERISA long-term disability or Social Security disability claims. This is not the case.
Both ERISA and Social Security disability claims are governed by federal law, so you can work with an attorney from any state. At the Ortiz Law Firm, we handle disability claims nationwide and offer Texas residents access to our experienced legal team, regardless of their location.
Whether you’re in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, or anywhere else in Texas, we have the expertise to handle your disability claim remotely, providing you with top-notch legal assistance without the need for a local attorney.
Why Choose the Ortiz Law Firm?
Navigating a disability claim can be complex and daunting—but you don’t have to face it alone. The Ortiz Law Firm is committed to helping Texas residents fight unjust disability claim denials and avoid delays.
Here’s why our clients choose us:
- Extensive Experience: Decades of experience handling long-term disability and SSDI claims.
- Personalized Representation: We understand that every case is unique, and we tailor our legal strategies to your specific circumstances.
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully helped numerous individuals obtain the disability benefits they deserve.
- Nationwide Representation: We represent clients across the country, so you can receive expert legal assistance without leaving your home.
Get a Free Case Evaluation for Your Texas Disability Claim
If you need help with your LTD or Social Security disability claim, don’t hesitate. Contact the Ortiz Law Firm today for a free case evaluation and let us help you pursue the benefits you deserve. Call us at (888) 321-8131 or fill out our online contact form to get started!
