Testimonials

Read what our clients say about our work

After over 40 years of service,

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

Terry is an expert in disability law. He has been practicing disability law for several years and has successfully handled thousands of cases. He is a very kind, caring, and intelligent man who has dedicated his career to helping the disabled, which I admire greatly. I truly respect and trust him as an individual and as an attorney.

Everyone at the firm was extremely responsive to our family’s every need, and we ended up getting the result we wanted. They walked us through the process each step of the way, which made it easier.

I was referred to LaPorte Law Firm several years ago by another lawyer who was not able to help me with my case. After meeting Terry LaPorte, I understood why he had been recommended. From the very first visit, he showed a genuine interest in who I am as an individual and was compassionate in helping me accomplish what I needed. Terry is a good listener and made me feel immediately comfortable. His knowledge of his business and the laws and regulations surrounding it gave me the confidence that I was at the right place. The process turned out to be very timely, made things incredibly easy for me, and was a great success. What I still find gratifying is that years later, if I have a question, I can call Terry, and his willingness to help is just as awesome as it was the day I hired LaPorte Law Firm.

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.

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.

I was referred to Mr. LaPorte when Social Security declined my disability claim. His staff were very patient and courteous. Mr. LaPorte explained the process for filing an appeal thoroughly, including how long it could take, and didn’t sugarcoat things. I truly appreciated this, because I prefer to be prepared, rather than be disappointed. Fortunately, I was approved, and I am confident that this is due to Mr. LaPorte’s handling of my case.

I came to California after filing for disability and being denied in another state. I was then denied twice in California as well, before being referred to Terry LaPorte. He is great — easy-going but very intelligent. I have to admit, after being turned down over three times, I had my doubts. I was on mental health medication and just couldn’t deal with things anymore. Many days, I could not even manage to take a shower. It was grim. It is difficult to make it in California with no money and no place to live. I don’t know what I would have done had I been denied again. It seemed like there was no way out of my situation, but I am forever grateful for Terry believing in me and going to bat for me. I feel like I can live a little now. Thanks, Terry!

LaPorte Law Firm helped me with my case from start to finish. They explained every detail to me and answered every question I had. They were on top of my case and helped me get through it with much less stress on my part. I recommend them to anyone who is looking for professional help on their claims.

LaPorte Law Firm was very helpful and successful in helping my wife with her case. They were very professional and were well prepared at the hearing, so the judge had no questions. I would recommend them to everyone.

I have known Terry LaPorte for over 20 years. When I had to have back surgery in 1998, Terry was highly recommended by a friend that Terry had also represented in a successful manner. From the moment I met Terry and his staff, I knew that I was in good hands. Within a short time, I was receiving my disability benefits. I was able to return to work five years after surgery; however, in 2017, I required Terry’s services once again, and within three to four months I was again receiving my disability benefits.

As I watched the judge raise her eyebrow at the mention of Terry LaPorte’s name, she quickly stated, ‘Oh, Terry LaPorte? I recall him being successful in quite a few cases…’ I felt proud to have him available to me and to people like us. The feeling of despair and uneasiness changed instantly. When I met him for the first time, I took note of all his awards and got to see how knowledgeable he is. If you are looking for the top attorney, Terry is my pick.

Excellent attorneys.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between SSDI benefits and SSI benefits?

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.”

Will SSDI replace all my lost income?

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.

How long does it take to receive SSDI benefits?

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.

How much will I be paying in attorney's fees?

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. 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.

What should I do if Social Security denies my application?

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.

How much will I receive if my claim is successful?

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.

Read our latest content on SSDI and SSI

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.