Testimonials

Read what our clients say about our work

Testimonials

Read what our clients say about our work

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After over 40 years of service,

LaPorte Law Firm has won thousands of claims and appeals for our clients

Here’s what our clients have to say…

Superb legal representation from start to finish. Clear communication and excellent service from attorney Terry LaPorte and staff. They made the process simple and greatly reduced the stress related to the disability application process. I recommend the services of this firm, because they are efficient, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. I am most grateful for their assistance. Thank you for helping our disabled community.

Eli F.

LaPorte Law Firm is very good at what they do. The application process for a Social Security Disability claim can be a long, complicated, and stressful experience, but LaPorte made the entire process so much easier for me. They’re the best!

Thomas Gardner

I can’t recommend LaPorte Law Firm highly enough. After four long years, two denials, and finally a hearing, I was awarded disability benefits thanks to their dedication and expertise. My case was complex and required constant record updates, but attorney Kevin LaPorte and legal assistant Sylvia Marichalar guided me every step of the way. They always responded quickly, eased my worries, and gave me confidence to keep going through an overwhelming process.

When it came time for my hearing, Kevin’s preparation and deep experience made all the difference. He helped me know what to expect and supported me in presenting my case clearly and confidently. Even after I received a favorable decision, Kevin took the time to explain what it meant for my future.

I’ve since referred friends to LaPorte Law Firm in Oakland because they are truly a beacon of hope for people navigating the Social Security Disability process. They combine professionalism, compassion, and genuine care for their clients — qualities that mean everything when you’re facing one of life’s most uncertain moments.

Rachel Newell

LaPorte Law Firm was wonderful to work with. They took a very stressful process and turned it into a positive experience by making me feel listened to and understood. They stood by me and were extremely supportive every step of the way. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

Donna Green

This firm and Mr. LaPorte did an amazing job with my case. I was hesitant to get an attorney, but after speaking with him, I never looked back. They were able to get me the best possible outcome. Don’t hesitate if you are in need of an honest disability attorney; call them today.

Karla Kopfhammer

When I was having an extremely difficult time dealing with my disability case, contacting LaPorte Law Firm was the best decision I could have made. Everyone at the firm was extremely kind and helpful in dealing with my situation. Thanks to them, I got what I needed!

Najib Nawab

In November 2015, after one year of cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and three surgeries, I was faced with the challenge of applying for Social Security Disability Insurance. I knew I was not up to managing the complex application process. We found Kevin LaPorte, who came highly recommended. From our first meeting, Kevin and Sylvia Marichalar, were kind, supportive, and totally professional. They remained so throughout the process, guiding us through the maze of paperwork and translating the legalese. I especially appreciated Kevin’s support in preparing me for my court date in front of a judge. He accompanied me to the hearing and helped me remain calm. I received a favorable judgment and believe it is fully due to the help and support from Kevin and Sylvia.

Terrance N.

If problems arise when dealing with Social Security Disability, calling LaPorte Law Firm is the best thing you can do. Professional, experienced, confident, and reassuring are a few words I’d use when recommending them.

Mitch Boo

During the most painful and vulnerable time in one’s life, it is comforting to have LaPorte Law Firm providing security and guidance in an arena that is so stressful and confusing. It’s always done with extreme grace, calmness, and respect for those who need it most in their trying times. I can’t thank them enough for taking care of me and reminding me that people do care. I feel blessed to have found them, especially Mr. LaPorte. What a gentleman in a sea of gruffness.

Elizabeth Rafietari

After getting turned down for SSDI twice, I went to Kevin LaPorte for representation on my appeal. We just won our appeal before an administrative judge, bringing an end to a long two-and-a-half-year ordeal. Kevin LaPorte is everything that you’d want in an attorney — extremely knowledgeable, prompt, an excellent communicator, organized, direct, well prepared, and compassionate. He told me exactly what to expect at the hearing and correctly predicted many of the issues that the judge would delve into. I knew I was in excellent hands with a top-notch legal advocate. Additionally, his relaxed, calm, and confident manner made him a pleasure to work with. Finally, his legal assistant, Sylvia, is extremely organized, prompt, and thorough, making communication with his office very easy. With total confidence, I can tell you that this is the legal team you want representing you.

Ben S.

This law firm helped us win our case after many appeals. The people there were very attentive and sensitive to our needs. They made sure to follow up and connect every step of the way. I highly recommend them.

Claudia H.

Terry went above and beyond to get my brother approved for his Social Security benefits — jumping through many hoops in what should have been an easy process that was complicated by the unusual circumstances of the case. He fought through red tape and managed to get a successful outcome. His integrity and work ethic are fantastic!

Debbie Klahr

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Frequently Asked Questions

SSDI is a disability insurance program financed by your Social Security paycheck deductions. Unless prohibited by your age, you must have worked a total of 10 years (40 quarters), 5 of which must be within the last 10 years (20 of the last 40 quarters). In order to be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must have earned FICA-taxed wages during this work period.

For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, no work time is required at all. There are, however, limits to eligibility based on how much property you own or money you have in the bank, as the SSI program is aimed at individuals who lack income or resources and are disabled. Benefits are paid as a flat rate, and the amount may be reduced if you receive any money or assistance from any source.

With both SSI and SSDI, you must be found disabled. The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees both programs and defines disability as being unable to perform any “substantial gainful activity.”

No, SSDI can be seen as a safety net. It will pay monthly benefits to you based on the amount of money that you have already paid into the system through employment taxes.
If your claim is approved upon the first attempt, the process should take just a few months. However, it should be noted that only approximately one-third of claims are approved on the first filing. As such, most applicants need to go through the appeal process to secure their benefits. If your claim is then approved after an appeal to the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review, delays of a year or more before benefit payment commences are also common.

Attorney’s fees are 25% of the first retroactive payment to you by the SSA; however, the fee is capped at US$7,200 regardless of the amount of money you are owed by the SSA. After November 30, 2024, the maximum attorney’s fees are capped at $9,200. There is no one-off or ongoing fee after you win your case. As the SSA can take several years to adjudicate a disability claim, disability claimants are often entitled to a large check for retroactive benefits for the period in which they were waiting for their claim to be decided. Our fees automatically come out of that first retroactive check, so our clients never have to pay us directly.

If your application is rejected on your first attempt, as is the case for many first-time applicants, you should seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An appeal must be filed using the proper forms within 60 days of the date of the denial decision. Your chances of winning an appeal are greatly enhanced by retaining a firm that specializes in Social Security law.
The monthly amount you will receive depends on factors such as age, past earnings, and type of benefit. The law allows retroactive pay up to 12 months prior to the month of a disability application. To get a better idea of your situation, it is advisable to consult the SSA’s benefit calculator.

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At LaPorte Law Firm, we only receive a fee if you win your case – so you have nothing to lose. We’re with you every step of the way.
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Award-winning service

Equipped with years of experience and thousands of successful cases, LaPorte Law Firm is the leading disability attorney in the Bay Area, and we have the awards and certifications to prove it.

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Everything You Need To Know About
The Social Security Disability application process