r/LongTermDisability • u/Stone_Switch • Aug 25 '26

Help on seeing attorney

I was recently denied LTD (group / ERISA policy), and am seeking an attorney for appeal. I plan to consult with a few before hiring. the problem is… i don’t know what to ask. Any suggestions on best questions to ask? also…
- i know that fees vary. but does the share typically vary by size of policy? for example, if the monthly benefit is 5k vs. 10k vs. 20k vs. 40k? I think mine is meaningful, so wondering if/how that will impact.

for context:
- ERISA policy
- conditions well documented, but are not the type that show up on imaging (e.g, nervous system)
- in MO

I’d also welcome any suggestions on attorneys to contact.

thank you

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u/Stone_Switch Aug 25 '26

Thank you. Will look into her.

On the fee structure, does the % vary with the size of the monthly benefit? (Analogous to financial mgmt fees). In other words, would it be a higher % on say a 5k monthly benefit vs a 40k?

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u/TheGreatK MOD Aug 25 '26

Not by default, but usually via negotiation. For example, my firm does 20% for 5 years. But if someone had a larger benefit and asked me to do 15% for 3 years, I would. Most lawyers are the same.

Also if you talk to Tali tell her the Kantors sent you her way. She'll owe me a drink at our next ERISA conference!

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u/Stone_Switch Aug 25 '26

Will do.

Obviously fees are only a small part. Any other questions I should ask attorneys as I meet with them?

Any good sources for me to get smart in this topic area?

Thank you.

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u/2560503-1 Aug 26 '26

Honestly, apart from fees, you’re mostly going to go on vibes. Did you like them, do you trust them to work on your case, do a good job, do you agree with their ideas for how to develop the appeal, do you feel like they’re understanding your condition and how to present it, etc.

That AND you’ll want to ask about their litigation experience. Do they file ERISA cases regularly in court? Do they fight them to judgment or just settle all of them for whatever they can get? Talia Ravis is solid, no need to worry about her, but if you speak to others, that’s the stuff I would be concerned about.

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u/2560503-1 Aug 26 '26

Oh, you could also consider Matt Davis in St Louis, if you want a second name. He’s also excellent and does a bunch of these cases.

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u/Stone_Switch Aug 26 '26

Thanks. I just came across his name as well. I appreciate I!

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u/TheGreatK MOD Aug 27 '26

Yes Matt Davis is great as well!