How to Choose the Right ERISA Disability Law Firm | Riemer Hess

If you’re navigating a long term disability insurance claim—whether it’s through your employer (an ERISA policy) or a private individual disability insurance (IDI) policy—you may be feeling overwhelmed. The process can be confusing, time-sensitive, and emotionally draining. Choosing the right disability insurance law firm can make a real difference in how smoothly your claim is handled and how well your benefits are protected.

Long term disability claims are complex. They require a strong legal strategy, detailed medical documentation, and a deep understanding of how insurance companies operate. Whether you're filing an initial claim, responding to a denial, or preparing for a disability appeal, having an experienced legal team on your side can help reduce stress and improve your chances of success.

Many professionals and executives carry both ERISA disability insurance and private disability insurance. These policies often overlap, but they follow different legal rules and define “disability” differently. That’s why it’s important to work with a firm that understands how to coordinate across both types of coverage.

At Riemer Hess, we’ve spent over 30 years representing professionals, executives, and other high-income earners with complex disability claims. This guide explains how to choose the right ERISA disability law firm, what to look for, what to avoid, and how to make a confident, informed decision.

How Does the Right Law Firm Help Ease Stress?

Filing a disability claim isn’t just about legal strategy. It often comes at a time when your health, identity, and financial stability are already under strain. Many of our clients are high-performing professionals who are used to being in control—so facing uncertainty about work can feel disorienting.

At Riemer Hess, we aim to reduce—not add to—that stress. We explain each step, set realistic expectations, and answer your questions in plain terms. We know this process can be unfamiliar and emotionally taxing. Our job is to make it more manageable, not more confusing.

You’ll never be left wondering what’s happening with your claim. We provide guidance, not jargon. Support, not pressure.

What’s the Difference Between ERISA and Private Disability Claims?

ERISA disability claims involve group policies provided by your employer. These are governed by federal law and subject to strict administrative rules:

• • Short appeal deadlines (usually 180 days)

  • Limited ability to add evidence after the appeal

  • Federal court litigation with no jury trial and limited discovery

Private disability insurance claims (also called individual disability insurance or IDI) are governed by state contract law. These policies are purchased on your own—often with the help of a financial advisor or broker. They typically offer:

If you have both types of coverage, it’s important to coordinate your legal strategy. The two policies often overlap—but they may define disability differently, calculate benefits differently, and respond to the same medical evidence in different ways.

At Riemer Hess, we regularly handle claims involving both ERISA and IDI policies.

What Does a Disability Law Firm Do?

A disability law firm helps individuals secure income protection benefits when medical issues interfere with their ability to work. That includes:

• Reviewing and interpreting your disability policy (or policies)

• Coordinating medical and occupational documentation

• Working with your doctors to develop strong written support

• Managing communications with the insurance company

• Preparing a comprehensive and strategic appeal, if needed

• Litigating in federal or state court when necessary

At Riemer Hess, we take a litigation-minded approach from the beginning—building each claim or appeal file as though it may end up in court, while doing everything possible to avoid litigation. This strategy helps ensure your evidence is clear, credible, and complete.

We also recognize that disability claims are personal. Most of our clients are high-functioning professionals who are used to being in control. A disabling condition—and the loss of identity or income that can come with it—can feel deeply destabilizing. We aim to make the process easier, not harder.

What Should You Look for in a Disability Law Firm?

1. Experience With Both ERISA and Private Disability Insurance

Some firms only handle one or the other. That can lead to missed opportunities—especially if your claim involves multiple policies.

At Riemer Hess, we have decades of experience with both. We know how to:

• Interpret and coordinate overlapping policies

• Navigate both federal (ERISA) and state (IDI) legal standards

• Tailor strategies to fit each policy’s language and structure

• Help ensure your benefits are fully and properly paid

Whether your policy comes from your employer, your financial advisor, or both, we’ll help you protect the full scope of your coverage.

2. A Track Record With High-Earning Professionals and Executives

Disability looks different at the executive and professional level. These claims often involve:

• Complex job duties and performance expectations

• High compensation with variable or bonus-based income

• Demanding schedules, leadership responsibilities, and travel

• Profound career impact from impairments others might not consider “disabling” in a general sense

We regularly represent:

• Physicians, surgeons, and dentists

• Attorneys and law firm partners

• Executives in finance, tech, marketing, and healthcare

• Academic leaders, hospital administrators, and consultants

We take the time to understand your role, your symptoms, and how your condition truly interferes with your ability to work.

3. A Litigation-Ready Approach

Even when you’re hoping not to sue, preparing your claim or appeal with litigation in mind gives you leverage. It also helps protect your rights if the insurer later denies the claim or refuses to pay what you’re owed.

We build every file as if it will be reviewed by a judge. This proactive approach ensures that our clients have the strongest possible file, and the insurers know that.

4. Clear, Compassionate Communication

We’re here to guide—not overwhelm. Our team answers your questions, sets clear expectations, and explains the process in terms you can understand. We know this isn’t just legal—it’s emotional. You deserve to feel heard, respected, and supported throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Disability Law Firms

Do you help with both ERISA and private disability insurance claims?

Yes. Many of our clients have both types of policies. We routinely coordinate strategy across ERISA (group) and private (IDI) policies.

How do I know which kind of policy I have?

If you have your coverage through your employer, it’s likely governed by ERISA. If you purchased the policy directly (or through a financial advisor), it’s usually a private IDI policy governed by state law.

Is it better to hire a lawyer before filing?

Yes. Early involvement helps ensure your file is strong from the start—especially important in ERISA cases, where appeals are often your last chance to submit evidence.

Can you help if I already filed my claim or appeal?

Yes. While earlier involvement gives us more room to shape the record, we can still assist if you’ve already filed. We’ll assess your file, identify weaknesses or violations, and advise you on next steps.

What happens if my appeal is denied?

With ERISA, you can sue in federal court—but no new evidence can be added. With IDI, you may have the option of negotiating, filing a new claim, or litigating under state law. We’ll explain all your options.

Do I need a lawyer near me?

No. We work with clients across the country. We’re admitted in federal and state courts and handle nationwide claims.

What are early signs my claim may be at risk?

Watch for repeated document requests, vague or shifting explanations from the insurer, or being scheduled for an exam with an insurer-hired physician. These can signal an upcoming denial.

What does it cost to hire your firm?

We offer flat fee, hourly, and hybrid pricing depending on your situation. We explain all options clearly during your consultation.

Do you offer consultations?

Yes. We’re happy to discuss your situation and help you decide whether legal representation is the right next step.

Conclusion

Choosing a disability law firm isn’t just about finding credentials on a website. It’s about finding a team that understands what you're going through—legally, professionally, and personally.

You deserve a law firm that knows:

• How ERISA and private (IDI) disability policies really work

• How high-level professional roles are affected by even subtle impairments

• How to build a claim or appeal file that’s thorough, credible, and ready for review

• How to protect your benefits through negotiation—or litigation, if needed

• How to communicate clearly, reduce stress, and guide you at every step

At Riemer Hess, we know that a disability claim isn’t just about insurance. It’s about protecting your income, your career, and your peace of mind. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity, strength, and support.

If you’re looking to file a long term disability insurance claim, appeal a wrongful claim denial, or litigate your insurer, Riemer Hess can help. Contact us today at (212) 297-0700 or click the button below for a consultation on your disability case.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. For help addressing a specific disability claim, consult a qualified attorney.