Sullivan & Hepler, Attorneys at Law Blog

Invasion of the Out of Town Attorneys

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

We are seeing a growing phenomenon of non-Jacksonville attorneys soliciting business in our area. This is especially true in our Social Security disability practice.

These large, out-of-town (and in most instances out-of-state) law firms are hiring internet companies that trick unwary Google searchers into believing that they are applying for disability benefits by supplying their personal information. Once these firms make contact with the potential clients, they have to explain that filling out the internet form was not the same thing as applying for benefits with the Social Security Administration.

How do I know this? Because we hired one such internet company before we discovered the unethical tactics they were using. Once it became apparent to us that prospective clients were being misled, we cut ties with the company immediately.

Other out-of-state firms are simply flooding the television airwaves with commercials. I was getting my hair cut last week, and even though I was in the barber shop only about 20 minutes, I saw three commercials for out-of-state lawyers, two for Social Security disability and one for personal injury.

Why do I think it’s a bad idea to hire an out-of-town law firm? First of all, from what many of our clients have told us, most of these firms make it impossible for a client to talk to an attorney about their case. When the clients call, nobody will talk to them, and nobody returns their messages. They don’t meet the attorney who is going to handle their case until five minutes before the hearing. When I’m in the waiting room at the hearing office in Jacksonville, I often see attorneys calling out the names of their clients because they’ve never met them in person before and don’t know what they look like.

Secondly, a lawyer who doesn’t practice in Jacksonville on a regular basis isn’t familiar with the judges who hear cases here. Judges are people like everyone else, and each one has quirks and preferences. We know the personality of each local judge, so we can prepare our clients for what to expect in any particular hearing.

If you need legal help of any kind, please call us. If we can’t help you, we’ll refer you to another lawyer in the Jacksonville area—someone we know and trust to represent you fairly and competently.

The Latest Disability Propaganda

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

        According to recent news articles, the Social Security disability program is projected to run out of money in 2017 or 2018. The number of applications has skyrocketed in the last few years, and the program pays out more money than it’s taking in via Social Security taxes.

        If you’ve applied for social security disability, you know what a bureaucratic nightmare the process can be. I can think of 100 ways the program could save money. But I get really upset when I read articles that say that “weak eligibility standards” are to blame for the financial crisis. It’s easy to point fingers at other people and make assumptions that they don’t deserve the benefits, but the truth is that it’s very difficult to qualify for disability.

        A number of different factors determine whether you’re eligible. It’s incredibly complicated, and each case is different. We advise hiring an attorney who can help you “cut through the red tape” and present your best case. We don’t get paid unless we win, so we don’t take a case unless we think it meets the strict criteria for disability.

       Congress should be able to find many ways to save money in the program, but making it harder for deserving people to get benefits should not be one of them.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Lawyer

        The Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer team at Sullivan & Hepler understands that you have questions regarding your Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

The “Lazy Cake” DUI Defense

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

William Odom- By now, you have probably heard of or even seen at your local convenience store a “Lazy Cake”. Steering away from the usual convenience store products that promise to keep us awake, Lazy Cakes are being promoted to help us relax and mellow-out.

Lazy Cakes co-founder Tim Barham says they “are not pot brownies and that the ingredients used in them have been sold for years at your local Walgreens or Wal-Mart, such as melatonin, valerian root, rose hips.” There are internet rumors that they contain the same synthetic marijuana compounds found in herbal incense products like Spice or K2.

The National Poison center gets more calls about melatonin than any other herb or supplement. In large doses, melatonin can cause problems with your central nervous system, cause problems breathing, as well as make you sleepy or nauseous.

While the risks of Driving while Lazy Cakes (DWLC) is yet unknown, I am sure that a good defense attorney will make his mark defending those drivers, who while trying to stay awake, are enroute to the Chinese buffet to cure their munchies.

Contacting a Jacksonville DUI Defense Attorney

The DUI defense attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Florida DUI arrest and possible conviction. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or speak to a judge request our free Florida DUI guide, The State of Florida v. You, for more information about how to fight your charges. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Florida Accident Injuries that May Result in Social Security Disability Benefits

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you have been injured in a Florida accident, such as a motor vehicle crash or a severe slip and fall, you may be thinking of pursuing a personal injury claim. While this type of claim can help when someone else's negligence is the cause of your injuries, you might also consider filing for Social Security disability benefits if your injuries are expected to persist and create long-term disability.

A personal injury settlement with an insurance company can take care of damages such as lost wages and medical expenses but it may not fully cover your losses if you become permanently disabled and unable to work.

Some of the types of Florida accident injuries that may result in filing a claim for Social Security disability benefits include:

amputation;
back injury;
traumatic brain injury; and
spinal cord injury.

When these injuries are severe, there is a potential you may never be able to return to work. When your ability to function is limited, Social Security disability benefits can help cover lost income.

A Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer can assess the injuries you sustained in a Florida accident to determine if you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

In addition, a lawyer can give you a better idea of what you'll need when applying for benefits, and can help you through the entire application process after you've sustained disabling injuries in a Florida accident.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Lawyer

The Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer team at Sullivan & Hepler understands that you have questions regarding your Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Listing of Impairments under the SSA’s Definition of Disability

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you have been diagnosed with a severe mental or physical condition that falls under the definition of disability according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits.

A Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if you are eligible and assist you with the process of applying for benefits or filing a Social Security disability appeal.

According to the SSA, you may be entitled to receive Social Security disability benefits if your condition falls under any of the following categories, which go onto list the specific conditions that qualify as "disabling":

musculoskeletal system;
special senses and speech;
respiratory system;
cardiovascular system;
digestive system;
genitourinary system;
hematological disorders;
skin disorders;
endocrine system;
multiple systems;
neurological system;
mental disorders;
malignant neoplastic diseases; or
immune system disorders.

If your condition is not listed under any of the above mentioned categories of impairment, you should still consult with a Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer, as you may still be able to prove that your condition is in fact disabling.

Filing a Social Security appeal or claim can be a complicated process, which is why you should seek the help of a Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer who can assist you. A Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer can explain how SSA defines disability and if your condition qualifies.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Lawyer

The Social Security attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Florida Applicants: 4 Stages of a Social Security Disability Benefits Appeal

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

You have the right to file an appeal when any decision from the Social Security Administration negatively affects your receipt of disability benefits. Whether you are filing an initial application for disability benefits, or you have received notice that your current benefits are being revoked or reduced, you can work with your Jacksonville disability attorney to appeal these decisions.

The first stage of appeal is reconsideration. Your case will be reviewed by an individual who was not involved in the first decision. At this time you can provide additional evidence of your condition and continued disability. This review normally does not require you to attend any meetings, but your appeal may benefit if you meet with a Social Security representative.

The second stage of appeal is review by an administrative law judge. At this court hearing your Jacksonville disability attorney will be of great help to present your case before the judge. The hearing must take place at a location within 75 miles of your home, or may be conducted by video in some cases. The judge will notify you of the time, place and method and will not have been involved in any prior decisions with your case.

The third stage of appeal is when your claim goes before the appeals council. You first must be approved for review by the appeals council, it is not automatically granted. Once you are approved for review, they will look at the details of the previous two stages of appeal. The appeals council may make a decision itself, or it may return the case to the administrative law judge for reconsideration.

If you have exhausted all three stages of appeals and are still left with an unsatisfactory decision you may take your case to federal court. This may be done if the appeals court refuses to hear your appeal, or if the returned decision is still unfavorable.

The process of filing and resolving a Social Security disability benefits appeal can be frustrating and difficult without the help of an experienced Jacksonville disability attorney. Many of the processes in the appeals stages involve court hearings and extensive reviews, which your attorney can help you handle.

Contacting a Jacksonville Disability Attorney

The Social Security attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Preventing Elevator Shaft Accidents at Jacksonville Construction Sites

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 08:00:00 GMT

You may think it's pretty difficult to be injured in an elevator shaft when they're obvious large holes in the ground. However, it is this very fact that makes elevator shafts such a serious hazard on construction sites, causing hundreds of injuries each year.

An unsecured elevator shaft that is left open and unbarricaded can cause a serious fall hazard when workers are preoccupied near the opening. Falling down an elevator shaft, no matter how short the distance, can cause serious impact injuries. Therefore it is critical that your construction site manager makes sure that the proper safety measures such as barricades or covers are used when the shaft is not occupied.

If you are a worker doing construction within an elevator shaft, you are also at risk of suffering a serious injury if proper safety equipment is not used. Aside from standards such as gloves, hard hats and reinforced footwear, your employer should provide you with a personal fall arrest system. OSHA standards require that specific fall prevention equipment be used in elevator shafts and other areas where falling is a potential.

Failure to comply with basic safety practices, as well as those mandated by OSHA, can not only result in construction site injuries but also safety violations. When you are injured on the job and file a Florida Workers' Compensation claim, you may also be able to file a claim against your employer for failure to provide proper safety measures.

Jacksonville construction sites with elevator shafts need to have extra safety measures in place to prevent elevator shaft accidents. The more hazards that are clearly marked, restricted or resolved, the lower the chances are that you will suffer serious injury and need to file a Florida Workers' Compensation claim.

Contacting a Jacksonville Workers' Compensation Attorney

A Jacksonville Workers' Compensation attorney from Sullivan & Hepler can help you to develop a solid case for your Florida Workers' Compensation claim. Request a free copy of our consumer guide, How Florida Workers' Compensation Works: 5 Things Every Injured Worker Needs to Know, for valuable information on your accident and injury. To get started with your claim, contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Collecting Benefits from Multiple Government Programs

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Ruth Ann Hepler- Clients often ask whether they can collect benefits from more than one government program at the same time or whether they will jeopardize their eligibility for Social Security benefits by collecting other benefits. The answers are sometimes complicated, so it’s always best to consult with an experienced attorney about the particulars of your situation. But these are some general guidelines.

Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits are based on your prior earnings, and you can collect other benefits you may be eligible for at the same time you are drawing SSDI. The amount of benefits is not dependent on other income you may have. However, in Florida, your disability benefits may be offset by workers’ compensation benefits received for the same medical problems.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are awarded only to people with limited income and assets. (The medical criteria for eligibility are the same for SSDI and SSI.) If you are receiving other benefits from another program, your income will probably be too high to qualify for SSI.

The Veterans’ Administration awards VA benefits to veterans with a service-connected disability. Unlike SSDI and SSI, VA benefits are awarded based on the degree of disability, from 10% all the way to 100%. You can collect VA benefits and SSDI benefits at the same time. You would not be eligible for SSI if your VA benefits put you over the income limit for SSI benefits.

Unemployment compensation benefits are a bit more complicated. The problem is that an application for unemployment means that you are willing and able to work but can’t find a job. On the other hand, an application for SSDI or SSI means that you are unable to work due to a disability, even if you could find a job. The receipt of unemployment compensation benefits doesn’t always mean that your SSDI or SSI application is doomed, but you should definitely talk to a lawyer about the situation. The amount of unemployment benefits that you receive might be enough to push you over the income threshold for SSI benefits.

Find out more at socialsecurity.gov.

If you have any questions about your particular situation, give us a call! 904-384-8808

Be a Good Communicator about Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT

When you file a Workers' Compensation claim in Florida you are responsible for keeping open communication between your employer, the insurance company, and your treating physician. Because all three have a significant impact on the settlement of your claim and payment of benefits, you need to make sure all reports to each are submitted in a timely manner.

Your employer should be notified immediately when you have been injured at work, so they can file the initial claim paperwork. They will need to be kept aware of your treatment and progress to help validate the amount of benefits you are receiving. Once you are cleared for work, they will need to know so they can prepare for any accommodations you may need following your accident.

The Workers' Compensation insurance carrier will also play an integral role in the approval and payment of your benefits. You will need to provide them with the reports on your injury and treatment. They should also be kept up to date with your medical progress and long-term needs if your injury results in disability.

Your treating physician is also very important in your Florida Workers' Compensation claim. They are the source of proof that your injury was severe enough to warrant absence from work and any long-term disability needs. Keep your doctor informed of your personal health during treatment and be honest with them about your recovery and ability to return to normal work.

Good communication is just one of the responsibilities you have when filing a Florida Workers' Compensation claim. To make sure your claim is accurately filed and settled you need to pay good attention to details with your treatment and recovery so you can return to work when necessary.

Contacting a Jacksonville Workers' Compensation Attorney

The Workers' Compensation attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Florida Workers' Compensation claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide How Florida Workers' Compensation Works: 5 Things Every Injured Worker Needs to Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Your Field Sobriety Test May Have Been Poorly Administered

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Most people facing Florida DUI charges figure that because a police officer administered a field sobriety test and arrested them for a DUI, that there is no way to fight these charges. Just because an officer claims you were intoxicated due to their analysis of your performance on a field sobriety test does not mean you are guilty of a DUI.

There are many factors that can cause the failure of a field sobriety test aside from intoxication. Depending on the nature of the test, your personal health, and the conditions in which the test were performed, there are many reasons that can lead to a police officer to believe you "failed" what is already a subjective test.

Many sober drivers can fail field sobriety tests due to unrelated medical conditions. If you are overweight, have joint or muscle conditions, suffer from seizures or stroke, or several other conditions, they may cause you to fail the balance or eye tests. Even having diabetes can cause test failure as you may be fatigued or jittery from blood sugar levels.

The condition of the road can also impair your ability to perform these tests. Ideally field sobriety tests are to be conducted in a well-lit, dry area with a flat pavement free from obstacles and gravel. A slick, uneven surface can cause stumbling or falls, and low-light can also cause difficulty in performance and officer assessment.

Police officers are only instructed on the basics of administering and evaluating these field sobriety tests to arrest you for a Florida DUI. They are not medical proof of intoxication and can therefore be argued against in court by an experienced Jacksonville DUI defense attorney.

Contacting a Jacksonville DUI Defense Attorney

The DUI defense attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Florida DUI arrest and possible conviction. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or speak to a judge request our free Florida DUI guide, The State of Florida v. You, for more information about how to fight your charges. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

The Hazards of a Construction Site & Workplace Injury

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Construction workers have some of the most dangerous jobs in the workforce. The conditions at construction sites are riddled with hazards, both natural and man-made, that can cause serious, even fatal injury. Even with proper safety procedures, many construction site accidents occur each year and create plenty of Workers' Compensation claims.

No matter what the type of job, a construction site will always have some form of hazard that can potentially cause you injury. When you are injured while working at a construction site, your employer's Workers' Compensation insurance should provide for your medical care as well as compensate you for lost wages while you recover.

Some of the common hazards at construction sites include:

unstable ground that causes trips or falls;
malfunctioning equipment;
misused equipment or tools;
falling objects;
flying debris;
electrical hazards;
chemical spills;
fires and explosions;
negligent workers;
misuse or lack of safety equipment; and
poor weather.

The injuries sustained in a construction site accident can put you out of work permanently. Your employer is required to cover workplace accidents with Workers' Compensation insurance, but you may need the help of a Jacksonville Workers' Compensation lawyer to file a claim for your construction site accident and obtain a fair settlement.

Contacting a Jacksonville Workers' Compensation Lawyer

The Workers' Compensation attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Florida Workers' Compensation claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide How Florida Workers' Compensation Works: 5 Things Every Insured Worker Needs to Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

What Not to Do When Applying for Disability Benefits

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:00:00 GMT

While there's not much that can really be done to expedite your Social Security disability claim or guarantee an approval, there are plenty of things you might do that can harm your benefits application. It's important to identify these harmful application practices and avoid them as early as possible if you want to increase your chances of receiving Social Security disability benefits.

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make during the approval process is ignoring correspondence from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Any communication from the SSA needs to be addressed as soon as possible. The longer that letter requesting further test results from your doctor sits on your shelf, the longer it will take for your disability benefits check to start arriving.

Even if you have legal assistance from a Jacksonville disability attorney, don't take for granted that they received a copy of the same letter. The SSA should be sending copies to both you and your attorney, but it's always best to make sure your attorney is informed of all letters you receive as well, especially if you don't really understand what the letter is asking for.

Another critical mistake that many claimants make is having a gap in their medical history. Because Social Security disability benefits rely on the existence of your condition for at least 12 months prior, or evidence that it is expected to last at least 12 months following or until death, you need to have thorough medical evidence supporting your claim. Gaps in medical treatment or missed doctors appointments will show the SSA that you are not taking your condition or your treatment seriously enough to warrant disability benefits.

If your gaps in medical treatment are due to lack of financial resources, your attorney may be able to suggest options that can help in this area, such as drafting a "dire need" letter for a hearing with an administrative law judge.

Your medical records, prompt communication, and good follow-up are essential to a successful disability benefits claim. There are other steps you can take to help the process along and lessen the frustration many face when applying for Social Security disability benefits. One of the first steps should be to speak with an experienced Jacksonville disability attorney for a review of your situation.

Contacting a Jacksonville Disability Attorney

The disability attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

The DMV connects with Veterans

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Florida implemented the “Florida Vets Connect” initiative in July, a program designed to better recognize Florida’s veterans and provide them with information about the benefits they may be entitled to collect. So far, nearly 30,000 Florida veterans have been contacted.

The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles allows veterans to identify their veteran status when applying for or renewing a license or ID card. The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs then uses that contact information to make sure the vets know about the benefits to which they’re entitled. Since the DHSMV is using existing computer systems, the new program doesn’t cost the taxpayers any additional money.

According to the state, more than 1.6 million veterans live in Florida, but as of July, the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs only had accurate contact information for approximately 700,000. Nationwide, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Magazine reported more than $22 billion in veterans' pension funds go unclaimed annually.

If you are a veteran but you’re not registered with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, be sure to let the DHSMV know so that your name can be added to the database.

Punctured Gas Line by Construction Company Causes Explosion

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

November 19, 2010 - Fort Myers, FL - A worker is in critical condition after an explosion at a construction site in Lee County.

The injured worker suffered severe burns in the fiery accident, which took place near Colonial Boulevard and State Road 82. News-Press.com for Fort Myers reports that the construction site accident occurred when Posen Construction broke a natural gas line in an area in which they were digging.

TECO Peoples gas officially released a statement that they had cautioned Posen not to dig in the area, as the marker that usually defines the location was eradicated, but the construction company proceeded.

Lee County officials agree with TECO that Posen is responsible for the worksite accident. The injured worker, Mario Santos, was operating a grader on behalf of Posen when he punctured the 8-inch gas main that caused the explosion. Santos received burns to an estimated 50% of his body.

Regardless of who is responsible in a workplace accident, injured workers are eligible for Workers' Compensation benefits to address their medical expenses and lost wages.

Contacting a Jacksonville Workers' Compensation Attorney

A Jacksonville Workers' Compensation attorney at Sullivan & Hepler can help you to develop a solid case for your Florida Workers' Compensation claim. To get started with your claim, contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

What to Know When Applying for SSDI or SSI Benefits

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

While Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are both designed to help disabled individuals who are no longer able to perform Substantial Gainful Activity because of a debilitating medical condition, the SSDI and SSI programs differ on who is eligible to receive these Social Security disability benefits.

To qualify for SSDI benefits you need to have contributed substantially to the Social Security program through your previous work history. Your past employment must have been at jobs where a portion of your wages was withheld to the Social Security funds.

When you apply for SSDI benefits your work history is evaluated and the years you worked and earnings you received are used to calculate how many work credits you have earned. In most cases, a disabled worker over age 31 must have earned 40 work credits in their lifetime, 20 of which were earned in the past 10 years.

Applying for SSI is a similar process, but the requirements focus more on your assets and income and financial needs rather than your work history. Your assets, including savings, cash on hand, and investments such as stocks and bonds cannot total more than $2,000. You may be earning an income, but your wages must not be above the limit set by your state.

Both SSI and SSDI benefits are based on the fact that you have a disabling condition that prevents you from working. This condition must have lasted at least 12 months or is expected to last 12 months or more or result in death. For SSDI your condition must also prevent you from not only doing your past job, but also prevents you from doing other Substantial Gainful Activity.

There are other differences between SSDI and SSI that you need to consider when attempting to file for either program. In many cases, those eligible for SSDI may be eligible for SSI benefits as well. To help determine all Social Security disability benefits programs that you are eligible for, speak with a Jacksonville Social Security disability attorney to review your case.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Attorney

The disability attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Cardiovascular Impairments Considered for Disability Benefits

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 08:00:00 GMT

When you file for Social Security disability benefits you must provide evidence of a disabling medical condition that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity. To help review and classify impairments that qualify for disability benefits the Social Security Administration (SSA) has developed a listing of impairments, which includes 14 categories of disorders.

Cardiovascular impairments are the 4^th category of impairments that may qualify an individual for Social Security disability benefits. In the impairment listings the SSA details the evidentiary requirements for proving the impairment and its impact on your work ability. There are also several specific conditions and diseases that are evaluated:

chronic heart failure;
ischemic heart disease;
recurrent arrhythmias;
symptomatic congenital heart disease;
heart transplant;
aneurysm of aorta or major branches;
chronic venous insufficiency; and
peripheral arterial disease.

All of these conditions are considered no matter if they were congenital or acquired. There is also additional consideration given to disorders of the veins or arteries (such as peripheral vascular disease) that impair other body systems by reducing blood flow.

There are several cardiovascular tests that the SSA may require as part of your medical evidence of your condition. ECG, exercise tests and cardiac catheterization evidence are all common types of clinical testing that can help support your Social Security disability benefits claim.

Classifying cardiovascular impairments in the SSA listing of impairments is one of the important first steps to evaluating a Social Security disability benefits claim for approval. Once you have determined you have a cardiovascular impairment identified in the SSA listing of impairments you should contact a Jacksonville Social Security disability attorney to get your claim submitted as soon as possible.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Attorney

The disability attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193

Injuries and Causes of Trench Collapse Accidents in Florida

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

A trench collapse accident in Florida poses not only the danger of the actual collapse, but also the problems involving rescue of the injured workers from the collapse site. Because trenches are normally used for installing utility lines, there also may be additional hazards of electrocution, flooding and dangerous gases.

A trench collapse accident in Florida may occur for many reasons, such as:

improper trench construction;
failure to follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for securing trenches with the proper safety equipment;
improper training in trench safety;
negligence on the part of workers (which leads to a collapse); and
hazardous weather conditions (this can erode the sides of the trench or the ground above it).

Proper construction safety measures, adequate safety equipment and avoidance of poor weather conditions can help to prevent trench collapse accidents. However, when a trench collapse accident does occur, the injuries can be severe.

The serious injuries which may occur from a trench collapse accident in Florida include:

traumatic brain injury (TBI);
spinal cord injury;
permanent disability;
loss of limb;
broken bones; and
soft tissue damage.

Those types of injuries can result in permanent disability, paralysis or disfigurement. The medical bills for treatment and recovery from these injuries can be financially devastating for a family, especially when the victim is unable to work following the accident.

A workers'cCompensation claim may be the primary option available for recovering the damages you have sustained after a trench collapse accident. After the initial report is made to your employer, you should contact a Jacksonville workers' compensation attorney if you are encountering resistance to your claim, or if your claim has been unfairly denied.

Contacting a Jacksonville Workers' Compensation Attorney

A Jacksonville workers' compensation attorney from Sullivan & Hepler can help you to develop a solid case for your Florida workers' compensation claim. To get started with your claim, contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 800-295-4193.

The 11 Sections of the Adult Disability Report

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 08:00:00 GMT

When you are in the process of applying for Social Security disability benefits you will be asked to fill out an Adult Disability Report. This report contains 11 sections that must be accurately completed, otherwise your claim could be denied due to missing information.

The 11 sections of the Adult Disability Report include:

basic information about the disabled person;
contacts (information on who is completing the report);
medical conditions;
work activity;
education and training;
job history;
medications;
medical treatment;
other medical information;
vocational rehabilitation, employment, or other support services; and
remarks.

The purpose of the Adult Disability Report is to gather information about your work history and medical condition. Because approval for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) relies on both of these factors to determine your benefit eligibility, it is critical that you complete this form correctly.

When filling out the Adult Disability Report you should have your medical records handy, as you will need to detail the history of your disability and provide proof of ongoing treatment. The medical treatment section of the report is the most lengthy and detailed section, as it is the most important information collected in this form.

The Adult Disability Report, along with the Disability Benefit Application, will allow you to provide the Social Security Administration with the basic information needed to begin your Social Security disability benefits application. If you have difficulty filling out this report yourself, you may have a friend or family member assist you, or a Jacksonville disability attorney.

Contacting a Jacksonville Disability Attorney

The disability attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order our free consumer guide, Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know, for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

Classifying Impairments to Determine Disability

Sat, 18 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

When you file an application for Social Security disability benefits you will be required to provide proof that your conditions are medically determinable impairments.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has created categories to classify the various types of impairments they consider to be disabling. These 14 categories include:

the musculoskeletal system;
special senses and speech;
the respiratory system;
the cardiovascular system;
the digestive system;
genitourinary impairments;
hematological disorders;
skin disorders;
the endocrine system;
impairments that affect multiple body systems;
neurological impairments;
mental disorders;
malignant neoplastic diseases; and
immune system disorders.

This is the order of categories for adults over the age of 18. For children younger than 18 years of age, the first category is "growth impairment" with the other 14 following to create a total of 15 child impairments.

When expanding on each category, the listing of medical conditions that are considered impairments and how they are evaluated are fairly similar between children and adults. The only major differences are when a condition does not progress in a similar fashion between children and adults.

When you are filing for Social Security disability benefits it is important to know how your condition fits into the Social Security's listing of impairments. You will need medical evidence of your condition and must be able to provide this documentation with your claim for it to be considered valid. An experienced Jacksonville disability benefits attorney can help you obtain your evidence and file your claim properly to avoid delay or denial.

Contacting a Jacksonville Social Security Disability Attorney

The Jacksonville Social Security disability attorneys at Sullivan & Hepler understand that you have questions regarding your Jacksonville Social Security disability claim. We have your answers. Before you hire an attorney or file your claim, order this free consumer guide Cutting Through the Red Tape: Top Ten Things Florida Social Security Disability Applicants Should Know for more information about how to build a strong claim. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193

Questions to Ask Your Jacksonville DUI Defense Attorney

Sat, 11 Sep 2010 08:00:00 GMT

When you are facing a Florida DUI, you should consider hiring a DUI defense attorney to help you fight your charges. Without proper legal defense you could be facing unfair penalties or may even be convicted for charges you don't deserve. Experience, trustworthiness and honesty are factors you should seek when hiring your Florida DUI defense attorney.

Take advantage of the case consultations that many DUI defense attorneys offer to their clients in order to get a good sense of an attorney before hiring them to fight your DUI charges.

During these interviews, there are many questions you should be asking your potential Florida DUI defense attorney, including:

How do you determine your payment and fees? - They should let you know up-front about their payment schedule and fee structure.
How many cases have you taken to trial? - Many DUI defense attorneys have never tried a case in court, and avoid doing so. This is something you need to know from the outset.
Who will actually be handling my case? - You want to make sure that an experienced attorney is handling your case.
Have you ever been disciplined by the Florida Bar or other association? - While bar discipline isn't always a deciding factor, they should be honest in discussing it if that is a part of their history.
What is your A/V rating? - Lawyers are rated just like any other professional business.
Can you provide me with references? - Except in cases of client-attorney privilege, attorneys should be able to provide good references of past case experience.

Questions like these will not only result in informative answers that will help you decide on your DUI defense attorney, but will also give you an idea of what it's like to work with them. There are many other factors to consider when choosing a Florida DUI defense attorney. Above all, you should feel confident and comfortable when working with your DUI defense attorney.

Contacting a Jacksonville DUI Defense Attorney

If you are charged with DUI in Florida, a Jacksonville DUI defense attorney from Sullivan & Hepler can help defend your rights. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193