During my 15 years of practicing bankruptcy law, the question I get asked the most is “If your clients are filing for bankruptcy, how do you get paid?” This is a perfectly legitimate question. How do attorneys get paid? It all depends on what type of … [Read more...]
Negligence in Texas: It’s Not Black and White
One of the most widely-held misconceptions about jury trials in Texas is that the jury decides who wins the case. In fact, jury trials in Texas utilize a system of special issues – questions which relate to the showings required based upon the … [Read more...]
Update on President Obama’s Executive Action
President Obama's Executive Action back in November has been on hold. However, 4 parts of it have continued to go forward. 1) They are providing work authorization for certain H-4 spouses. Certain spouses of H-1B workers who are on the pathway to … [Read more...]
Social Security Facts for Women
If you have worked at least 10 years and/or earned 40 work credits, you are vested in the SS program. That means once you turn 62, you are eligible for your own SS Retirement benefits regardless of your income or marital status. If you are married … [Read more...]
WAYS TO PERMANENTLY IMMIGRATE
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...]
