Workers' Compensation

I've recently sustained an injury because of work, what should I do now? 

It is important you immediately tell your supervisor that you were injured on the job. When you speak with your supervisor you must be clear and and specify what you injured and how you sustained the injury at work

Could I be fired for filing a claim? How will my employer pay the costs? 

When you file a workers' compensation claim, you are not suing your employer. Nearly all employers in New York are required to pay for workers' compensation insurance. Any payments you receive related to the claim will come from the fund. The Workers' Compensation Law in New York protects both employers and employees

I am an undocumented immigrant, can I still file a claim? 

While laws differ from state to state, NY state courts have upheld the right of undocumented workers to file a workers' compensation insurance claim. 

​How much does it cost to retain an attorney for a Workers' Compensation Claim? 

The attorney in a Workers' Compensation Claim is paid only if you receive benefits from the insurance fund, and then the attorney is only paid a nominal percentage of the benefit payments

Social Security Disability

I was not injured at work, but I have an injury that keeps me from working. Can I still apply for benefits? 

Yes. Anyone who has been unable work for at least five months because of a health problem, who has sufficiently paid in to the Social Security Administration, and is likely to be out of work for at least a year, is eligible for social security disability benefits. 

I have a mental illness, not a physical disability. Am I still eligible for benefits? 

Yes, Social Security Disability benefits can be paid to those with either physical disabilities or mental disorders. 

I have already applied for Social Security Disability benefits. Why do I need a lawyer? 

Most initial applications for Social Security Disability benefits are denied. After this denial you have 60 days to file an appeal. An attorney is best equipped to navigate this appeals process and build the best possible case to present before the administrative court that hears the appeal. 

Estate Administration

Why do I need a  Will? 

There are four reasons why you should prepare the documents for an end-of-life plan (like a living will) with an attorney:

1. To appoint an estate "executor" or someone who will be responsible for ensuring that your last wishes are carried out
2. To assign a guardian for any minors in your care. Without a will, your dependents could be put in the custody of any number of relatives depending on local laws. 
3. To map property distribution or determine who should receive which assets from your estate and savings
4. To make end-of-life medical decisions so that your loved ones will know your wishes should you be unable to make medical choices for yourself