Insurance Claims Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo Represents Disability Insurance Policyholders in Claims Against Insurance Companies in Miami and throughout Florida.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. represents individuals that have had their valid long term disability benefits denied, delayed or terminated irrespective if the policy was purchased individually or issued through an employer group policy. The firm is available to assist individuals with the initial application process, during the administrative appeals process, termination, litigation in state or federal court, and negotiating a one-time lump sum settlement or buy-out.
Get Started Now - Free Case Evaluation & Consultation
Insurance claims attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo helps insurance policyholders recover what they are due on their insurance claims. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
Losing the ability to perform your job is traumatic. Your career is an integral part of your identity, and when you are unable to continue working due to an injury, a chronic illness, or a gradually worsening medical condition, it is both emotionally and financially devastating.
According to a 2007 NAIC study, 56 percent of the individuals surveyed said they could not pay their bills if they became disabled. In a time when your future is unsure and when you are physically or mentally unable to bring home your paycheck, you are reliant on your disability insurance company to carry you through these difficult times and help support you and your family when you are unable to care for them. After all, that's why you were responsible and bought disability insurance in the first place.
You may have obtained your policy through your employer. Most Group Long-Term Disability (LTD) policies are provided to employees by the employer who may pay all or some portion of the premium. The employer is considered to be the "policyholder" and the employee is the "certificate holder." Each employee receives a "certificate booklet" describing the terms of their policy. Group polices are regulated or governed by the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974. There are some group policies that are not governed by ERISA, but not many. These types of polices are not individually underwritten and the risk is spread out among all members of the insured employer group.
Or you may have purchased your policy on your own. These are individual disability policies, purchased from an agent or directly from the insurer, which are individually underwritten by the disability insurance company. Like with most types of insurance policies, the disability insurance company assumes all of the risk of any future claims. These policies are not governed by ERISA.
Case In Point
In this case we represented an insured under a long term disability insurance policy. The insured suffered from fibromyalgia, a controversial disease. The insured had a lengthy claims and medical history. The insurance company denied the insured's claim, thus prompting the insured to retain our services. We initiated litigation against UNUM. We filed the case in state court in Miami, Florida. However, UNUM removed the case to federal court. The court promptly scheduled the case for trial. Fortunately for the insured, we were able to obtain a favorable settlement at the mediation of the case.
The Disability Insurance Claim
Just because an insurance company says it - doesn't make it fact. After struggling to fill out your claim forms and collect information proving your disability, your insurance company informs you that your claim has been denied or that you will not be receiving the full amount of financial support that you are owed. Suddenly, you have yet another stressful problem to contend with: you aren't well enough to work, and your one safeguard has fallen through.
Disability insurance cases are unique in that they tend to be more complex than other types of insurance coverage cases. This is due in part because, in many instances, federal law (ERISA) applies to your claim. Disability insurance contracts can be intricate and difficult to understand. Even filing your initial claim can be a highly involved and convoluted process that could lead to your request being denied for a number of reasons.
You can be bombarded with unfamiliar terms: effective dates of coverage, elimination period, activities of daily living, minimum hour requirements, pre-existing conditions, recurrent provisions, non-integrated policies, self-reported symptoms, waiting periods, etc.
Don't be intimidated. It is not uncommon for an insurance company to deny a disability insurance claim because, based on their "review", they have determined that you are not "disabled". This decision is often based on the opinion of an insurance company employee with some "medical training" that has reviewed your medical chart. Or it's based on the opinion of some vendor or medical doctor that provides pro-insurance company opinions that are biased by their desire to continue a profitable relationship with the insurer. Just because an insurance company says it doesn't make it fact. Don't let the insurance company intimidate you into compromising your claim
Denied Disability Payments May Alter Your Life Forever
If you think that you can get by without receiving your disability benefits or with the small sum that your insurance company has offered you, consider these sobering statistics from the Council for Disability Awareness:
You bought disability insurance in order to prevent these consequences. Don't let insurance fraud by your disability carrier steer you down the path of financial and personal ruin.
We Are Your Insurance Against the Insurance Companies
As a former claims adjuster, I understand why these situations come about. Insurance companies are in the business of making money. By delaying claims, insurance companies get to hold on to their money a little longer. Money that is invested somewhere earning them money. As far as insurance companies go, the only thing better than delaying a claim is denying a claim.
In simple terms, when you bought a disability insurance policy your insurance company entered into a contract in which they promised to pay out the insurance benefits in the event of disability in consideration for payment of certain premiums. You and your family were responsible and sacrificed to make the insurance premiums. Don't let your insurance company get away with taking your money but refusing to follow through with their half of the deal.
Insurance claims lawyer J.P Gonzalez-Sirgo has nearly 15 years experience and along with an experienced staff we hold insurance companies to their word. We do exactly what insurance companies fear: We Hold Them to Their Promises.
We routinely represent individuals with their disability insurance claim denials or unexplained delays in the rightful processing of their disability insurance claim including negotiations, settlement discussions and through litigation if necessary, including in state and federal courts.
Consumer advocate attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo helps insurance policyholders recover what they are due on their insurance claims and zealously advocates on behalf of victims of catastrophic personal injuries or wrongful death. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. helps insurance policyholders recover what they are due on their insurance claims, zealously advocates on behalf of victims of catastrophic personal injuries or wrongful death and fights for the rights of consumers and small businesses in Miami and throughout Miami-Dade County, Florida. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
About The Firm
J.P. has been certified as a life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. The Million Dollar Advocates Forum is recognized as one of the most prestigious groups of trial lawyers in the United States. Membership is limited to attorneys who have won million and multi-million dollar verdicts, awards, and settlements. Fewer than 1% of U.S. lawyers are members. J.P. has also been awarded the top rating of 10.0/10.0 or "Superb" by Avvo. Avvo's Rating system helps people navigate the complex and confusing legal industry, including choosing the right lawyer - an incredibly important decision. The Avvo Rating system takes into consideration a lawyer's background, including years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.
In addition, the firm maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The firm is highly respected by other lawyers and members of our community and maintains offices in the historic Douglas Entrance complex in Coral Gables, Florida. Please click here for further information regarding office location and directions.
Prior to attending law school, J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo worked as a claims adjuster for a busy independent adjusting firm in Miami where he handled hundreds of claims. Before founding the law offices of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A., Mr. Gonzalez-Sirgo worked for a prominent insurance defense firm in Miami. He now uses the insight that he gained working for the insurance industry for the benefit of his clients.
Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo has built his entire career on protecting the rights of insurance policyholders, personal injury and wrongful death victims and fighting for the rights of Florida consumers and small businesses. The firm has recovered millions of dollars for victims of denied or underpaid insurance claims, victims of catastrophic personal injuries and wrongful death and on behalf of those that have been taken advantage of by Big Business and Big Insurance.
Active Legal Memberships
The Florida Bar
Community & Charitable Involvement
The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A believes that representation of our clients does not stop in the courtroom. We believe in giving back to our community by participating in local charitable events. The firm participates or donates to various local charitable and research organizations. Of special importance to the firm are those organizations that support many of the illnesses, syndromes, diseases, disabilities and aliments that afflict so many of our past and current clients. In addition, J.P. is proud to be a volunteer for Lawyers for Children America (LFCA). As a pro-bono LFCA volunteer lawyer, an opportunity exists to protect the rights of children who are victims of abuse, abandonment and neglect by providing free legal representation and collaborating for systematic change to improve the lives of children.
Free Case Evaluation & Consultation
If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
There is never a charge to speak with an attorney at our firm. Unlike other law firms, we are available to come to you at your hospital bed side, home, office or other location throughout the entire State of Florida.
You Pay Zero Attorneys' Fees If No Recovery
We understand that many of our clients do not have the resources or means to pay lawyer fees out of pocket. This is why we offer a free consultation and case evaluation. In the great majority of cases, if we decide to go forward with your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis. This means that if there is no recovery on your claim, you do not pay fees for our services.
If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
Se Habla Espanol
For our Spanish speaking clients, please click here for Espanol.
A Message To Insurance Policyholders In Florida
There are numerous challenges facing policyholders attempting to have their life insurance and disability insurance claims timely honored by insurance companies: The delays in investigation of claims, the endless request for documents, requests for sworn statements or examinations under oath, requests for recorded statements, fraud accusations, application issues, material misrepresentation issues, requests for medical evaluations, bad faith insurance issues, and litigation.
In the great majority of cases we will be able to help you with these challenges. Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo helps disability and life insurance policyholders recover what they are due on their insurance claims. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
A Message To The Victims of Catastrophic Personal Injuries or Wrongful Death
There are numerous challenges facing victims of catastrophic injuries and wrongful death in their pursuit to obtain a full measure of justice from those doing wrong.
The good news is that in the great majority of cases we will be able to help you with these challenges. Miami Personal Injury Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo zealously advocates on behalf of victims of catastrophic personal injuries or wrongful death. If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
A Message To Our Referring Public Adjusters
We understand and appreciate the value a Pubic Adjuster brings to a property insurance claim. For years, we have worked side-by-side with Public Insurance Adjusters and their respective clients in helping to resolve any claim issues through our legal representation.
Public Adjusters recognize that sometimes a client's difficult insurance claim requires the need for aggressive legal representation. Experienced public adjusters recognize all of the obstacles presented by an insurer during a challenging claim. The Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. routinely works with clients that have retained the services of a Public Adjuster. We prefer to work together as a team consistent with the best interests of the client's claim. During the claim's process, we seek to keep all members of the team in the loop and engage your advice and services whenever necessary. All efforts put forth by our law firm and your adjusting firm will always be in the best interest of our mutual client.
We also work with corporate counsel and corporate risk managers to resolve any insurance claim disputes.
If you would like a Free Consultation and Case Evaluation, please fill out the Quick Contact Form to the right or click here and a member of our firm will contact you promptly. You may also contact us directly at (305) 461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
A Message To Our Referral Attorneys
For years, the Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. has been welcoming attorney referrals from our colleagues. Many of our clients come to us as a result of referrals from other attorneys, including from out of state lawyers and lawyers from other countries, who know of our success in handling insurance claims litigation. We encourage and welcome these co-counsel opportunities and routinely pay referral fees in accordance with the rules regulating the Florida Bar and Florida law. Over the years, we have paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in referral fees to our referring attorneys. We recognize the trust placed in us by our referring attorneys and so we make sure that our referring attorneys are kept in the loop throughout our representation, from the initial intake through the conclusion of the case.
To discuss a case with us, please call (305)-461-1095 or Toll Free 1-(866)-71-CLAIM. Alternatively, you may click here and fill out our "Contact Us" form and an attorney at the firm will contact you promptly.
Serving Miami-Dade County, Florida & Our Local Communities
J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. provides experienced legal representation for individuals and businesses throughout Florida and Miami Dade County, including Aventura, Bal Harbour, Carol City, Coral Gables, Doral, Florida City, Golden Beach, Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens, Homestead, Kendall, Key Biscayne, Medley, Miami, Miami Beach, Miami Lakes, Miami Gardens, Miami Shores, Miami Springs, North Bay, North Miami, Opa Locka, Pinecrest, South Miami, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, Sweetwater, Virginia Gardens, West Miami, Westchester, all of the Florida Keys communities, and Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Covering all of South Florida. Attorney J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo is admitted to practice in all of the Federal and State courts in Florida, from the Florida Keys to Florida's Panhandle.
Disclaimer
The use of this Website or use of our "Contact Us" form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship and does not constitute legal advice. Time-sensitive or personal confidential information should not be sent through the "Contact Us" form. You are not forming an official attorney-client relationship with the Law Firm of J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A. or its attorneys unless and until you have signed a written retainer agreement with this law firm. Submission of the "Contact Us" form does not create a written retainer agreement. If you would like to enter into a written retainer agreement with the Law Firm J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A., please call (305)-461-1095 or Toll Free at 1-(866)-71-CLAIM.
The accounts of recent trials, verdicts, and settlements contained in this website are intended to illustrate the results of my work ethic and experience. Of course, each case is unique and the results in one case do not necessarily indicate the quality or value of any other case.
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J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo, P.A.
Douglas Entrance
804 Douglas Road
Suite 373
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Phone: (305) 461-1095
Fax: (305) 461-1096
Toll Free: (866) 71-CLAIM
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