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When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.
New York – NYC Disability Fraud Lawyers
Understanding Social Security Disability Fraud
Social security disability is a benefit given to those who need assistance owing to a serious medical status that makes them unable to work for at least one year. Sometimes people breach the law by fabricating their medical condition to receive disability benefits. The following are the requirements for SSDI benefits, some of the forms of disability fraud, penalties, and the measures you can take to report the offense.
Eligibility for SSDI Benefits
To be eligible for SSDI benefits, an applicant must have worked in jobs that offer social security cover. Applicants are also required to have a medical condition that satisfies SSA’s description of disability.
SSDI benefits normally continue until a beneficiary resumes work on a full time basis. There are special rules known as “work incentives” that give beneficiaries continued health care coverage and benefits to enable them resume their normal work schedule.
If you are looking for a lawyer that listens, is aggressive where needed, and holds his word above all else, Todd is the best pick. I had hired multiple attorneys prior to hiring the Spodek Group for a white collar case. The first thing that stood out to me was the cost, as anyone going through the process and dealing with the system, money was tight at that time - especially after hiring and firing multiple lawyers. The cost was not as high as others which was definitely a plus. Todd's intake process was also unlike other attorneys. He took the time to actually listen. He cared. He was trying to put himself in my shoes while I was explaining the situation to him and he really took the time to understand the whole situation. Other lawyers will give you 15 mins and send you a retainer agreement. Not Todd, I think he spent almost two hours with me as I was explaining everything.Not only was he great during the onboarding process, he was supportive and very informative through the entire plea process and eventually sentencing. After hiring him, I asked if I should hire a prison consultant, he told me to save my money as he would do everything they would. He was right and held up to his word. Later on I would hear from others that went with the prison consultants that they were a waste of money - I am glad I listened to Todd!When it came time for sentencing, two days prior to sentencing, the prosecutor tried increasing my proposed prison time by almost double - apparently a normal move. Todd and his team worked with me non-stop through the weekend prior to sentencing to ensure that I was not given additional prison time. Again, he took the time to listen and came up with a strategy to explain the case with great detail.Unfortunately, I did plead guilty as that was my best option. Todd and his whole team wrote up nearly 300 pages of a summary of what happened and why I should not be given prison time. If I breakdown the amount I spent with Todd versus the amount of work that I saw being done, I am shocked I was not charged four times as much. The other benefit was, a lot of criminal defense lawyers were just a single attorney with a paralegal or two. Todd had a team of people that I dealt with (5-7 people that I interacted with), but he was ALWAYS accessible. It would never take him more than an hour to reply unless he was in court.I was sentenced to prison and I was emotionally distraught. Todd and his team did whatever they could even after sentencing to make sure I was alright. He personally stayed in touch with my family to ensure I was doing alright and offered support to them. Most lawyers would consider the job complete at sentencing, not Todd.After prison, Todd still spent time with me to make sure I was on the right track and avoiding any potential risks in the future. He has also been giving advice on how to navigate probation etc and has not been looking at the clock for billing.Although I wish I had never been arrested in the first place, I am glad I had Todd and his team in my corner. Without them I likely would have had to spend a lot more time in prison than I did.Thank you, Todd, and the entire Spodek Law team, for helping turn what was a nightmare into a manageable situation!
I am immensely grateful to the entire team at Spodek Law Group for their unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise throughout my case. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, their professionalism and tireless advocacy made all the difference. Their strategic approach and attention to detail instilled confidence in me every step of the way.Thanks to their hard work and commitment, we achieved a truly favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Not only did they navigate the complexities of my case with precision, but they also provided invaluable support and guidance during what was undoubtedly a challenging time. I cannot recommend Spodek Law Group highly enough, especially attorneys Todd Spodek and Claire Banks; they are beacons of excellence in the legal profession.YSP.
Todd, Ralph and Alex are amazing. Helped my husband get from a double digit number with multiple charges to a single digit, by the time I blink he will be out. They very professional and help with all your needs. They dealt with my anxiety and worry very well and they understand that your family member needs to get home as soon as possible.
Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence.Thank you team!
I recently had Spodek Law Group represent me for a legal matter in NYC and I am thoroughly impressed with their services.Alex Zhik secured the best possible outcome for my case.It was a seamless journey from the initial consultation to the resolution of my legal matter. From the moment I spoke to Todd about my case, his enthusiasm to help was evident, setting a positive tone for the entire experience. The efficiency and professionalism displayed by the team is commendable.A particularly noteworthy aspect of their service is their user-friendly portal to upload your documents/evidence. This not only simplified the process, but showcases their commitment to streamline the client experience.Lastly, in an industry where legal fees can often be a concern, I found their pricing to be very reasonable, making needing legal assistance feel accessible and stress-free.I am grateful for their support and wouldn't hesitate to turn to them again in the future.
Forms of Disability Fraud
Making False Claims on a Disability Case
When people are applying for social security assistance, they are required to state that the data they provide is correct and true. If someone makes a false statement, they are guilty of fraud.
For example:
An applicant states they are blind and not able to drive an automobile when in fact the person has a valid driver’s license and is seen driving
An applicant indicates that they have no income when in fact they generate income from other sources such as an insurance policy or rental income
An applicant indicates that they are not married when they are
Concealing Facts That Affect Eligibility For Disability Claims
It is considered fraud when an individual conceals certain facts from the social security administration knowing well that it will affect benefits.
For example:
An applicant does not report that they are serving jail time
An applicant does not report that they returned to work
An applicant does not inform SSA when a beneficiary dies but continues to receive the cash of the deceased person
Misuse of Benefits by a Representative Payee
In some cases, the people who get social security benefits cannot handle their financial affairs. In such cases, after conducting investigations, SSA will appoint an organization, individual, friend, or relative to take over their social security matters. However, when a representative payee uses the beneficiary’s funds to meet their personal expenses, or puts the beneficiary’s funds in their own personal account, or charges the beneficiary for managing their funds, or misuses the beneficiary’s benefits in any other unreasonable way, they are liable for social security disability fraud.
What You Need to Confirm Before Claiming Fraud
Firstly, you should realize that an accusation of SSDI fraud is serious and may lead to criminal or civil penalties against the alleged defendant. Ensure that your facts are accurate and that you have sufficient information about the alleged defendant’s situation. It is worth noting that some physical disabilities are not obvious and some are not physical. Therefore, it may be difficult to determine whether a person is actually disabled.
Secondly, you need to bear in mind that a beneficiary of SSDI is permitted to work for a minimal amount. Therefore, if you see someone working who is receiving disability benefits, do not be quick to accuse them of fraud. Settlements awarded for SSI can be revoked, according to Steve Raiser – one of our New York personal injury lawyers.
What Information is Used to Prove Disability Fraud?
If you believe that a person is committing disability fraud, the first step to make is to contact SSA. You can report the incident through an online form available at the SSA portal, by sending a mail or fax, or by calling a fraud hotline. When making your claim, you are required to provide details such as the name of the alleged defendant, their address, their phone number, their social security number, and their date of birth. Additionally, you should state how you think the alleged defendant has committed fraud or is falsely receiving benefits, the period within which they have been committing the crime, and any witnesses to this crime.
Although this report can be anonymous, SSA will require your physical information to make further inquiries and to inform you when they complete investigations.
There are severe penalties for SSD fraud. Criminal penalties can amount to fines of up to $250,000 or 5 years in jail. Civil penalties can amount to fines of up to $5,000 and the suspension of one’s professional license.
