At 42 years old, Kara C. faced serious health challenges, including neurological and chronic pain conditions that made it impossible for her to maintain consistent employment. As her condition worsened, she applied for Social Security Disability benefits but quickly encountered obstacles that threatened to delay or derail her claim.
From the outset, this case involved significant evidentiary challenges. Critical medical records were needed from multiple providers, including specialty clinics and treating physicians. Despite properly submitted requests, some providers failed to timely respond, requiring follow up notices and escalation under federal privacy laws to enforce the client’s right of access to her own medical records. In addition, coordinating records from multiple facilities created delays that could have jeopardized the strength and timing of the claim.Â
Key Issues in the Case
This case was notable due to the difficulty in obtaining complete medical documentation and the need to build a strong evidentiary record across multiple providers. Without these records, the Social Security Administration would not have had a full picture of the severity of Kara’s condition. Ensuring compliance with HIPAA timelines and overcoming provider delays became a central issue in successfully advancing the claim.
The Outcome
Despite these challenges, the claim was successfully developed and ultimately resulted in approval of Social Security Disability benefits. This outcome ensures that Kara now receives consistent monthly financial support.
How Our Representation Made a Difference
Shook and Stone took a proactive and aggressive approach to securing the evidence necessary to win. Our team issued formal record requests, followed up persistently with providers, and enforced the client’s legal rights when delays occurred. We also coordinated medical evidence across multiple sources to present a clear and compelling case that demonstrated disability under Social Security rules. Without this level of advocacy, the claim could have been significantly delayed or denied.
Lifetime Value of Benefits
Born in 1982, Kara is expected to receive benefits through approximately age 67. Based on typical monthly disability payments, the estimated lifetime value of her benefits exceeds $700000, providing long term financial stability and peace of mind.
DIRECTIONS 
