Many people think there are many ways to permanently immigrate to the United States. The fact is there are not as many ways as people think. The ways to permanently immigrate to the United States are through family, employment, refugee, diversity … [Read more...]
SSI Eligibility and Trusts
SSI is an income based disability program. This is for people who have not worked and/or had reported earnings which would qualify them for SSDI benefits. Because the beneficiaries are drawing out money that they didn’t pay in, SSA has the additional … [Read more...]
Are you facing a Foreclosure?
In today’s economy, it’s no secret that families are struggling with paying their home mortgages. Falling behind just one or two payments on your mortgage can quickly snowball into a full blown attempt by the mortgage company to foreclose on your … [Read more...]
Dying while waiting for Social Security Benefits
Dying while waiting for Social Security Benefits Denials are a part of the disability process. Sometimes a denial comes because the case is not completely worked up: no recent tests; no treating doctors willing to give opinions regarding … [Read more...]
I’ve Been Sued!
Nothing makes one’s stomach tie up in knots faster than being served with a creditor lawsuit. It’s hardly ever a good thing when the sheriff or constable is looking for you to serve you with legal documents. So, you’ve been sued. Now what? There are … [Read more...]
How important is it that I see a doctor while applying for disability?
Extremely important! I often find myself repeating to my clients one of two phrases: “God helps those who help themselves” SSA feels the same way. You cannot refuse to try and get better and expect the government to pay you. The second phrase I catch … [Read more...]
Is My Credit Ruined FOREVER?
Unless you are being romantic, the word "forever" is so…final. So one of the most asked questions about filing bankruptcy is "Will my credit be ruined forever?" and the answer is "No." Yes, a bankruptcy case stay on your credit report for up to ten … [Read more...]
When will my benefits begin once I establish that I am disabled?
Just like most areas of law, the answer is that it depends…. For SSI benefits, (need based) you are eligible to receive payments the first full month following the month you applied.* That means if you apply in January 2015, it does not matter if … [Read more...]
Latest on the Obama Executive Actions
Here is the latest on the Obama executive actions. They have been put on hold. A Federal Judge in Brownsville, Texas has put the programs on hold until the federal court can hear the trial of the 26 states who are suing the federal government. The … [Read more...]
Think Before You Post!: Discovery and Social Media Content
Although progress in the legal field can sometimes be slow, it does occur. The law has, for example, finally become aware of the prevalence and importance of social media in our day to day life. Under the new Texas Pattern Jury Charges, for example, … [Read more...]
Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!: Premises Liability for Ice and Snow on Sidewalks and Walkways
One of the more enduring legal myths in this state is that homeowners are liable to pedestrians who slip and fall on ice or snow on their sidewalks. In truth, fairly consistent decisions in our courts this past decade have whittled away any vestiges … [Read more...]
Expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
On February 18th, Immigration will be accepting applications for the expanded DACA. You qualify for this by meeting the following requirements. You entered the United States before your 16th birthday and before January 1, 2010, You have no … [Read more...]
