Independence Day!

 

Hodson & Mullin, Attorneys at Law

601 Buck Avenue

Vacaville CA 95688

707-452-9606

727 Texas Street

Fairfield CA 94533

707-421-7800

What To Do When You've Been Injured At Work

Your job is not just something you work hard at but something that is important to your livelihood. That’s why a workplace injury can be so devastating—missed time at work can mean missed paychecks and expensive medical bills.

Enter workers’ compensation. Designed (in many cases) to be the exclusive remedy for injuries that happen on the job, each state is different when it comes to filing claims and collecting these important benefits. The workers’ compensation system can sometimes be complicated with very specific procedural requirements before your claim will be accepted.

For that reason and many others, working with a workers’ compensation attorney can help make sure you get approved for these important benefits.

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Learn about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
and the two rules to receive it.

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn. At Hodson & Mullin we not only understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades. 

Meet Reema Simjee

Attorney, Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability

Experience

Reema Simjee was born in Karachi, Pakistan. She immigrated to San Francisco in 1989 with her brother and her parents. Reema grew up in Northern California and graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Political Science and Sociology in 2004. Reema attended Thomas M. Cooley School of Law in Lansing, MI and earned her JD 2011.

Reema is a well-rounded attorney who has experience in both Workers’ Compensation as well as Social Security Disability. Reema joined the team at Hodson & Mullin in 2017. Prior to joining the Hodson & Mullin team, Reema has worked at various workers’ compensation firms.

Reema currently works out of the Vacaville, CA office of Hodson & Mullin. She loves being a mother to a rambunctious boy, traveling, reading, and really enjoys going to the movies and exploring new restaurants with her husband.

Practice Areas

Workers’ Compensation Social Security Disability

Contact

Phone: (707) 452-9606 Fax: (707) 452-9607
Email: rsimjee@hodsonandmullin.com

Meet David Flores-Workman

Attorney, Workers’ Compensation/Social Security/Disability

Experience

David Flores-Workman is a native of California born and raised in Northern California. He served in active duty in the Air Force and was also later an officer in the Navy. Mr. Workman received his undergraduate degree at California State University Chico and obtained his law degree from University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law. He has taught Business Law at Solano Community College and served with the Sacramento Public Defenders office. He is also admitted to the United States District Court, Eastern District of California. Mr. Workman was formerly with Hanna, Brophy, McLean, Macaleer and Jensen.

Affiliations

Mr. Workman is a member of the California State Bar and the Solano County Bar Association.

Mr. Workman is a proud father of two beautiful children and is very active in their school and extracurricular activities. He enjoys time with his family and loves to travel and read.

Practice Areas

Workers’ Compensation Social Security / Disability

Contact

Phone: (707) 452-9606 Fax: (707) 452-9607

June 19, 2022

 

Happy Father's Day

VACAVILLE OFFICE

601 Buck Avenue

Vacaville, CA 95688

707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE

727 Texas Street

Fairfield, CA 94533

707.421.7800

Meet Samuel C. Mullin

Attorney, Workers’ Compensation/Personal Injury, Social Security/Disability

Experience

Firm Partner, Samuel C. Mullin, III, was born in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Grove City College and his law degree from Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio where he received the honor of Order of the Curia. Mr. Mullin has served as a Federal Prosecutor in the U.S. Air Force and as Assistant City Attorney for Suisun City. He has been certified as a Workers’ Compensation Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization and has repeatedly been designated a California Super Lawyer. Mr. Mullin also served as a Judge Advocate in the Air Force and continues to serve as a Colonel with the Air Force Reserve.

Affiliations

Mr. Mullin is a member of the California State Bar Association, the Solano County Bar Association and the California Applicants Attorneys Association. He enjoys time with his family, is very active in his church, and can be found on the golf course on those rare occasions when he has some free time.

Practice Areas

Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury Social Security / Disability

Contact

Phone: (707) 452-9606 Fax: (707) 452-9607 Email: smullin@hodsonandmullin.com

What Is An Affidavit

An affidavit is basically a legal document, which is written legal document about certain facts or events. The document sets forth a list of facts or descriptions of situations that the person swears to be true.

Contact Us: Vacaville 707.452.9606 | 707.421.7800

What Is Workers' Comp Insurance?

 Insurance Laws & Help : Workers' Comp Insurance

What Kind Of Lawyer Do I Need

Litigation injury attorneys are skilled in handling a wide variety of cases when you've been wronged or need to protect your rights. There are many, many laws that may apply to your situation, both on the state and federal level -- and a litigation attorney can explain them to you. So, if you're not sure what kind of lawyer you need, it's ok! Most times, a general litigation attorney can help you with your legal problem.

Call Us: Vacaville 707.452.9606 | Fairfield 707.421.7800

Hodson & Mullin has been a preeminent Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability and Personal Injury firm in Solano County for more than 25 years and has been recognized as Law Firm of the Year by the Solano County Bar Association and readers of the Vacaville Reporter. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization has designated our principals as Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Law. We are perennially named among Northern California’s Super Lawyers.

Ours is the only AV-Preeminent rated Workers’ Compensation Law Firm in Solano County, rated by the Martindale-Hubbell and FindLaw ™ directory.

We offer our clients professional legal representation and services in Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury cases. Our staff of attorneys, and our friendly paralegals, legal assistants, and administrative assistants all work hard to ensure the best results for our clients in and out of the courtroom.

We are able to negotiate settlements in the vast majority of our cases, but when litigation is necessary, our principals and associates have the trial experience and level of expertise necessary for effective representation in court. We are one of the few law firms in the North Bay area with Certified Specialists whose staff provides services to Spanish-speaking clients, and with three retired military officers among our lawyers, our own personal military service uniquely positions us to assist military clients.

The Hodson & Mullin firm’s mission is to put clients first, with the goal of minimizing the stress of resolving legal matters. Put our expertise to work for you.

VACAVILLE OFFICE

601 Buck Avenue

Vacaville, CA 95688

707.452.9606

FAIRFIELD OFFICE

727 Texas Street

Fairfield, CA 94533

707.421.7800

Can you work if you are receiving Social Security Disability benefits?

Did you know that if you receive Social Security Disability benefits, there are incentives available that will allow you to work and receive your benefits? Social Security has options available that will help you make decisions about work. This brief video explains work incentives and the Ticket to Work.

3 Ways to Know It's a Scam Call

Government imposter scams continue to grow across the United States.
Learn how to identify a scam call and protect yourself from becoming a fraud victim.

What Kind Of Lawyer Do I Need?

Litigation injury attorneys are skilled in handling a wide variety of cases when you've been wronged or need to protect your rights. There are many, many laws that may apply to your situation, both on the state and federal level -- and a litigation attorney can explain them to you.  So, if you're not sure what kind of lawyer you need, its ok!  Most times, a general litigation attorney can help you with your legal problem.

Contact us: Vacaville 707.452.9606 or Fairfield 707.421.7800

Should I Hire a California Attorney for My Personal Injury Claim?

Personal injury lawsuits can be extremely stressful and overwhelming, especially when the law is not clear or the legal issues are complicated. Therefore, if you have been injured in an accident and want to file a lawsuit, you should strongly consider hiring a California personal injury lawyer before proceeding with your case. 

An experienced California personal injury lawyer will already be familiar with the law and various legal issues that arise in such cases. Your lawyer will also be able to predict the probability of your case being successful as well as the types of damages you could potentially receive if you prevail. 

Additionally, your lawyer can also discuss other options for legal recourse and can help you make an educated decision about whether to follow through with a trial. If you decide to move forward with a trial, your lawyer can also provide representation in court. 

Let Hodson & Mullin Attorneys help you... contact us to get started.

Article source

What Types of Damages Can a Judge Award an Injured Plaintiff in California?

There are many types of damages that a judge can award to a prevailing plaintiff in a California personal injury case. Damages awards are typically divided into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages awards. 

Since punitive damages are rarely awarded and will be discussed in further detail below, the remainder of this section will focus on the kinds of economic and non-economic damages that an injured plaintiff can receive instead.

Economic damages are used to reimburse the plaintiff for actual, measurable losses caused by an injury. Some common types of economic damages in California personal injury cases may include:

• Lost wages and future earnings;
• Loss of earning capacity;
• Repair or replacement of property; and/or
• Compensation for medical expenses (both future and past).

On the other hand, non-economic damages are a form of compensation, but they are meant to cover injuries that are unquantifiable or difficult to measure. Some common types of non-economic damages in California personal injury cases may include:

• Emotional distress;
• Pain and suffering;
• Disability or disfigurement;
• Loss of enjoyment of life; and/or
• Loss of reputation. 

Article source

How Do I Establish My Personal Injury Claim in California?

California personal injury lawsuits are based on acts that cause physical, financial, or emotional injury to a plaintiff. In other words, most personal injury lawsuits have a basis in tort law, as opposed to criminal. Thus, these are normally civil cases held between private parties.

Some examples of causes of action that California personal injury lawsuits may be brought under include:

• Negligence (e.g., breach of duty);
• Intentional torts (e.g., assault, battery, etc.);
• Premise liability;
• Breach of warranty or contract; and
• Strict liability.

So, for instance, if a plaintiff purchases a product from a seller who promises that the product provides specific benefits or is of a certain quality and the product does not live up to those claims, then the plaintiff may sue the seller for breach of warranty.

Hodson & Mullin Attorneys can help you successfully navigate the system.

Article source

When Should I Bring My Personal Injury Claim in California?

Each state has a law that prescribes the amount of time a person has to file a lawsuit for a particular type of claim. This law is called a “statute of limitations”. Depending on the facts of a case, the statute of limitations for California personal injury claims is two years from the date of the incident, or alternatively, from the date that an injury is discovered. When an injury is not discovered until later on, the law that applies is known as the “discovery of harm” rule. 

Additionally, the length of time may also be subject to change based on the type of injury suffered and by location. For example, the amount of time prescribed to file a personal injury lawsuit for injuries resulting from a slip and fall incident may not only vary by county in California, but also from the period of time a person may have to file a personal injury lawsuit for injuries relating to an auto accident. 

Article source

What is a Personal Injury Claim?

According to California personal injury laws, a personal injury claim refers to a type of civil lawsuit that is filed when a person suffers harm or loss resulting from an emotional, physical, or psychological injury. In California, any individual can be held liable for intentionally or negligently causing harm to another person. 

Some examples of common personal injury cases include slip and fall accidents, motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death suits, premise liability, and products liability claims. In such cases, an injured party may be able to sue another person or entity for damages if they can prove that the other party intentionally or negligently caused their injuries. 

For instance, a person can take legal action against a company for injuries received from a defective product. If the person can successfully prove that they suffered actual harm because of the company’s defective product, then they will most likely be able to collect a certain amount of damages.

One important thing to keep in mind about personal injury claims in California is that the state follows a comparative fault system. Thus, if the plaintiff was responsible for causing any part of their injury, then their damages award will be reduced by the percentage attributed to their portion of fault. 

For example, suppose two drivers get into a car crash and one of them sues the other in court. If during trial it is revealed that the defendant driver is 80% at fault for the accident and the plaintiff driver is 20% at fault for the accident, then the plaintiff will receive 20% less than the amount of damages they would have received if the plaintiff had been 0% at fault for the accident.

As is evident from the above information, personal injury cases can become quite complicated because they have so many moving parts (e.g., the case itself, elements of proof, damages calculations, etc.). Therefore, if you have suffered an injury and need to file a claim, you should contact a local personal injury lawyer before your ability to bring a lawsuit expires. 

Article source

Happy Mother's Day from Hodson & Mullin

 

601 Buck Avenue
Vacaville CA 95688
707-452-9606

727 Texas Street
Fairfield CA 94533
707-421-7800

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn.  At Hodson & Mullin we not only  understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades.

At our firm, a highly experienced legal assistant will spend a great deal of time working with you and gathering records and information to perfect your claim, but your legal questions will be answered by an experienced attorney.

We are registered with the Social Security Administration and when necessary, we appear at actual hearings throughout Northern California to present our clients’ cases effectively, with an eye toward the most favorable outcomes.

Most of our experienced legal assistants are fluent in both English and Spanish, so language is never a barrier to obtaining results.

We are happy to meet with you for an initial consultation without charge to you, and you incur no costs at all unless and until your case is resolved and you receive a settlement or benefits.  Schedule an appointment with us today at our Vacaville or Fairfield offices!

Start your consultation here

What to Do if We Decide You are No Longer Disabled

Did you receive a notice from Social Security that your benefits are
stopping because of a Medical Review?

Hodson and Mullin can help make the process easier.

Workers' Compensation Law: Common Non-Scheduled Injuries

This presentation is part of our series of presentations on the rules governing workers' compensation. Here, we look at nonscheduled injuries, which are injuries that are not on the state's list of workers' compensation injuries. These injuries, too, are covered by workers compensation rules, but the rule may differ from coverage of scheduled injuries. This presentation defines nonscheduled injuries and looks at the rules that normally apply to them.

5 Tips for Workers Compensation Cases

 At Hodson & Mullin, our clients are informed of their legal rights regardless whether they have suffered an industrial injury in California, are seeking disability benefits through the Social Security Administration, or both. Call us today! 

601 Buck Avenue

Vacaville CA 95688

707-452-9606

727 Texas Street

Fairfield CA 94533

707-421-7800

SSA Scam Awareness PSA

Hodson and Mullin can help you with your Social Security

601 Buck Avenue

Vacaville CA 95688

707-452-9606

727 Texas Street

Fairfield CA 94533

707-421-7800

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Learn about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the two rules to receive it.

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn. At Hodson & Mullin we not only understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades. 

Happy Easter From Hodson and Mullin

 

Hodson & Mullin has been a preeminent Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability and Personal Injury firm in Solano County for more than 25 years and has been recognized as Law Firm of the Year by the Solano County Bar Association and readers of the Vacaville Reporter. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization has designated our principals as Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Law. We are perennially named among Northern California’s Super Lawyers.

Contact Us

What To Do When You've Been Injured At Work

Your job is not just something you work hard at but something that is important to your livelihood. That’s why a workplace injury can be so devastating—missed time at work can mean missed paychecks and expensive medical bills.

If you need help... Contact Hodson & Mullin Attorneys

Meet our Attorneys and Staff

Our staff of attorneys, and our friendly paralegals, legal assistants, and administrative assistants all work hard to ensure the best results for our clients.

Hodson & Mullin is conveniently located in Vacaville and Fairfield. 

Contact us today for a consultation so that we can best assist you.

What can I do if I’m notified that I have an overpayment?

Did you receive a Notice of Overpayment from Social Security? This brief video explains what you can do if you agree or disagree with the overpayment – repay, adjust the rate of recovery, ask for an appeal, or file a waiver. For more information, check out the answer to our Frequently Asked Question, What can I do if I’m notified that I have an overpayment?

Can you work if you receive SSI disability payments?

Did you know that if you receive SSI Disability benefits, there are incentives available that will allow you to work, receive your SSI checks and maintain Medicaid eligibility? SSI Disability has options available that will help you make decisions about work. This brief video explains work incentives and the Ticket to Work program.

3 Ways to Know It's a Scam Call

U.S. Social Security Administration
Government imposter scams continue to grow across the United States.
Learn how to identify a scam call and protect yourself from becoming a fraud victim.
Learn more at ssa.gov/fraud

Hodson & Mullin has been a preeminent Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability and Personal Injury firm in Solano County for more than 25 years and has been recognized as Law Firm of the Year by the Solano County Bar Association and readers of the Vacaville Reporter. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization has designated our principals as Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Law. We are perennially named among Northern California’s Super Lawyers.

Ours is the only AV-Preeminent rated Workers’ Compensation Law Firm in Solano County, rated by the Martindale-Hubbell and FindLaw ™ directory.

Contact Us to see how we might assist you.

Employer Information

Workers' compensation is the nation's oldest social insurance program: It was adopted in most states, including California, during the second decade of the 20th century. The workers' compensation system is based on a trade-off between employers and employees. Employees are entitled to receive prompt, effective medical treatment for on-the-job injuries or illnesses no matter who is at fault and, in return, are prevented from suing employers over those injuries.

As a result, California employers are required by law to have workers' compensation insurance, even if they have only one employee. And, if your employees get hurt or sick because of work, you are required to pay for workers' compensation benefits. Workers' comp insurance provides basic benefits, including medical care, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits, supplemental job displacement benefits and a return-to-work supplement, and death benefits.

Continue reading Cal.gov

Disability Evaluation Unit (DEU)

The Disability Evaluation Unit (DEU) determines permanent disability ratings by evaluating medical descriptions of physical and mental impairment. The determinations are used by workers' compensation administrative law judges, injured workers and insurance claims administrators to determine permanent disability benefits. The DEU prepares three types of ratings:

• Formal, done at the request of a workers' compensation judge
• Consultative, done on litigated cases at the request of an attorney or DWC information and assistance officer
• Summary, done on non-litigated cases at the request of a claims administrator or injured worker

Disability Rating Determinations describe your percentage of disability. This percentage is based on a physician report and on the type of work you were doing at the time of your injury. If the rating indicates that you have some permanent disability, you should receive permanent disability payments, less any permanent disability payments made to you prior to the rating.

Let Hodson & Mullin help you with the process and paperwork.

Workers Compensation

Make no mistake – the Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability processes can be agonizingly slow, as can the course of medical treatment.  Hodson & Mullin’s attorneys and staff advocate zealously on each clients’ behalf with Workers’ Compensation insurance carriers, and if necessary, before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.  In some cases, Hodson & Mullin also pursues personal injury or other third party cases on behalf of injured Workers’ Compensation clients.  We have a track record of integrity in helping our clients get the best settlement they are able to under the law.  Hodson & Mullin is Solano County’s largest and busiest Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability firm.  Our attorneys and staff have the knowledge and expertise to handle even the most severe cases toward successful resolution.

Hodson & Mullin has been a trusted presence in Solano County for more thana quarter century.  Our firm prides itself on its commitment to staying abreast of recent changes and current developments in the law through extensive continuing legal education, to ensure every client has excellent, highly capable  representation.  Most of our Workers Compensation and Social Security Disability staff members are Spanish-speaking, and most of our business is the result of referrals from former clients.

Put our experience to work for you. Start your consultation today.

Meet Reema Simjee

Reema Simjee was born in Karachi, Pakistan. She immigrated to San Francisco in 1989 with her brother and her parents. Reema grew up in Northern California and graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Political Science and Sociology in 2004. Reema attended Thomas M. Cooley School of Law in Lansing, MI and earned her JD 2011.

Reema is a well-rounded attorney who has experience in both Workers’ Compensation as well as Social Security Disability. Reema joined the team at Hodson & Mullin in 2017. Prior to joining the Hodson & Mullin team, Reema has worked at various workers’ compensation firms.

Reema currently works out of the Vacaville, CA office of Hodson & Mullin. She loves being a mother to a rambunctious boy, traveling, reading, and really enjoys going to the movies and exploring new restaurants with her husband.

Practice Areas

Workers’ Compensation Social Security Disability

Contact

Phone: (707) 452-9606 Fax: (707) 452-9607 Email: rsimjee@hodsonandmullin.com

Meet Mr. Flores-Workman

David Flores-Workman is a native of California born and raised in Northern California. He served in active duty in the Air Force and was also later an officer in the Navy. Mr. Workman received his undergraduate degree at California State University Chico and obtained his law degree from University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law. He has taught Business Law at Solano Community College and served with the Sacramento Public Defenders office. He is also admitted to the United States District Court, Eastern District of California. Mr. Workman was formerly with Hanna, Brophy, McLean, Macaleer and Jensen.

Affiliations

Mr. Workman is a member of the California State Bar and the Solano County Bar Association.

Mr. Workman is a proud father of two beautiful children and is very active in their school and extracurricular activities. He enjoys time with his family and loves to travel and read.

Practice Areas

Workers’ Compensation Social Security / Disability

Contact

Phone: (707) 452-9606 Fax: (707) 452-9607

Meet Mr. Mullin

Firm Partner, Samuel C. Mullin, III, was born in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Grove City College and his law degree from Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio where he received the honor of Order of the Curia. Mr. Mullin has served as a Federal Prosecutor in the U.S. Air Force and as Assistant City Attorney for Suisun City. He has been certified as a Workers’ Compensation Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization and has repeatedly been designated a California Super Lawyer. Mr. Mullin also served as a Judge Advocate in the Air Force and continues to serve as a Colonel with the Air Force Reserve.

Affiliations

Mr. Mullin is a member of the California State Bar Association, the Solano County Bar Association and the California Applicants Attorneys Association. He enjoys time with his family, is very active in his church, and can be found on the golf course on those rare occasions when he has some free time.

Practice Areas

Workers’ Compensation Personal Injury Social Security / Disability

Contact

Phone: (707) 452-9606 Fax: (707) 452-9607 Email: smullin@hodsonandmullin.com

Statute of Limitations

A statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. Most lawsuits MUST be filed within a certain amount of time. In general, once the statute of limitations on a case “runs out,” the legal claim is not valid any longer.  

The period of time during which you can file a lawsuit varies depending on the type of legal claim. Here are the statutes of limitations for some common types of legal disputes:

Personal injury: Two years from the injury. If the injury was not discovered right away, then it is 1 year from the date the injury was discovered.

Breach of a written contract:  Four years from the date the contract was broken.

Breach of an oral contract: Two years from the date the contract was broken.

Property damage: Three years from the date the damage occurred.

Claims against government agencies: You must file a claim with the agency within 6 months (for some cases, 1 year) of the incident. If the claim is denied, you can then file your lawsuit in court but there are strict limits to when, so read the section on government claims and the chart on statute of limitations below.

Some crimes, such as murder, are considered so terrible that they often have no statute of limitations period. See a table for “statutes of limitations” in many types of cases.

Figuring out when the statute of limitations runs out on a claim is not easy. If you have any doubts about how to calculate the time you have, talk to a lawyer.

Source: California Courts

Personal injury is a legal term for an injury to the body, mind or emotions, as opposed to an injury to property. In common-law jurisdictions the term is most commonly used to refer to a type of tort lawsuit in which the person bringing the suit (the "claimant" in English Law or "plaintiff" in American jurisdictions) has suffered harm to his or her body or mind. Personal injury lawsuits are filed against the person or entity that caused the harm through negligence, gross negligence, reckless conduct, or intentional misconduct, and in some cases on the basis of strict liability. Different jurisdictions describe the damages (or, the things for which the injured person may be compensated) in different ways, but damages typically include the injured person's medical bills, pain and suffering, and diminished quality of life.

Source: Wikipedia

Who Qualifies?

There are two parts: Financial and Medical

Financial: There are two basic Social Security programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) which is what it says: Insurance – if you have been working full time before you were disabled, you have probably paid enough through taxes to qualify financially, but every case is different. If you qualify, so do minor children you support. A typical benefit is $1,100 per month and additional amounts for minor children in your household who you support. If you win, you can get benefits as far back as a year before the date you first filed. But, every case is different.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides a very small amount of money (less than $850 per month) to people who live at or below the poverty level. If you win, you do get paid for the time you have been waiting to get your case heard.

Medical: There are five hurdles to Medical eligibility.

Are you working? You don't have to be bed-ridden to qualify. This is why so many people who get Social Security benefits may not look like they should qualify if you see them on the street. Only you know how you feel and what you can do. Don't give up hope just because someone else doesn't believe you.

Do you have a medical impairment? Basically this means a diagnosis of something that limits your ability to work. Here, unlike Workers Compensation cases, they don't look at just one injury, illness or consequence. Everything counts. Does pain or pain medication limit your ability to concentrate? Are unscheduled breaks necessary for you? Are you out of breath or fatigued because you can't sleep? It is the combination of things and what a medical professional says about them that matter.

Some medical impairments, like blindness and terminal cancer, are so severe that there are special rules and the case may be processed more quickly. There is a long list of these conditions. Every case is different.

Can you do the easiest job you have done in the past 15 years? They don't just look at the most recent job you have had. If you have had a sit-down job in the past 15 years, it is legally significant even if you have done heavy labor for the past 10 years.

If you can't do your past job, other factors (age, education, job skills and difficulty with English) will make it harder for you to go back into the work force. It does not matter whether you could actually find a job. It is your “vocational profile" and what the medical professionals say your maximum physical capacity is that count.

Social Security Disability

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn.  At Hodson & Mullin we not only  understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades.

At our firm, a highly experienced legal assistant will spend a great deal of time working with you and gathering records and information to perfect your claim, but your legal questions will be answered by an experienced attorney.

We are registered with the Social Security Administration and when necessary, we appear at actual hearings throughout Northern California to present our clients’ cases effectively, with an eye toward the most favorable outcomes.

Most of our experienced legal assistants are fluent in both English and Spanish, so language is never a barrier to obtaining results.

We are happy to meet with you for an initial consultation without charge to you, and you incur no costs at all unless and until your case is resolved and you receive a settlement or benefits.  Schedule an appointment with us today at our Vacaville or Fairfield offices!

Contact us for a consultation

Can you work if you are receiving Social Security Disability benefits?

Did you know that if you receive Social Security Disability benefits, there are incentives available that will allow you to work and receive your benefits? Social Security has options available that will help you make decisions about work. 

We Know the Right Words

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn.  At Hodson & Mullin we not only  understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades.

At our firm, a highly experienced legal assistant will spend a great deal of time working with you and gathering records and information to perfect your claim, but your legal questions will be answered by an experienced attorney.

Do I Really Need A Lawyer?

You can file with no help from anyone or you can get help from friends and family or you can pay someone. There is no requirement that a person be a lawyer or be certified in order to help you file a claim for benefits. This is a highly technical process – like wiring a house or laying ceramic tile, anyone can do it and like anything, you get what you pay for. You may not need “a lawyer” but you do need someone who knows the law, who knows medicine and who knows how the claims process works.

We know how to use the right words to get your claim started the right way. We know how to get the right evidence to the right place at the right time. We know how to get your claim approved in the shortest amount of time.

Contact us for your consultation: Vacaville 707.452.9606 or Fairfield 707.421.7800

Social Security Disability Program

The SSDI program pays benefits to you and certain family members if you are “insured.” This means that you worked long enough – and recently enough - and paid Social Security taxes on your earnings. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program pays benefits to adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources.

While these two programs are different, the medical requirements are the same. If you meet the non-medical requirements, monthly benefits are paid if you have a medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death.

More information on the Social Security website

What is a Personal Injury Claim?

According to California personal injury laws, a personal injury claim refers to a type of civil lawsuit that is filed when a person suffers harm or loss resulting from an emotional, physical, or psychological injury. In California, any individual can be held liable for intentionally or negligently causing harm to another person. 

Some examples of common personal injury cases include slip and fall accidents, motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death suits, premise liability, and products liability claims. In such cases, an injured party may be able to sue another person or entity for damages if they can prove that the other party intentionally or negligently caused their injuries.

For instance, a person can take legal action against a company for injuries received from a defective product. If the person can successfully prove that they suffered actual harm because of the company’s defective product, then they will most likely be able to collect a certain amount of damages.

One important thing to keep in mind about personal injury claims in California is that the state follows a comparative fault system. Thus, if the plaintiff was responsible for causing any part of their injury, then their damages award will be reduced by the percentage attributed to their portion of fault. 

For example, suppose two drivers get into a car crash and one of them sues the other in court. If during trial it is revealed that the defendant driver is 80% at fault for the accident and the plaintiff driver is 20% at fault for the accident, then the plaintiff will receive 20% less than the amount of damages they would have received if the plaintiff had been 0% at fault for the accident.

As is evident from the above information, personal injury cases can become quite complicated because they have so many moving parts (e.g., the case itself, elements of proof, damages calculations, etc.). Therefore, if you have suffered an injury and need to file a claim, you should contact a local personal injury lawyer before your ability to bring a lawsuit expires. 

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Our staff of attorneys, and our friendly paralegals, legal assistants, and administrative assistants
all work hard to ensure the best results for our clients.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION, SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY, AND PERSONAL INJURY

Vacaville Office: 707.452.9606
Fairfield Office: 707.421.7800

How Do I Choose A Lawyer?

Consider the following:

• Comfort Level - Are you comfortable telling the lawyer personal information? Does the lawyer seem interested in solving your problem?
• Credentials - How long has the lawyer been in practice? Has the lawyer worked on other cases similar to yours?
• Cost - How are the lawyer's fees structured - hourly or flat fee? Can the lawyer estimate the cost of your case?
• City - Is the lawyer's office conveniently located?

 Not Sure What Questions To Ask A Lawyer?

• Here are a few to get you started:
• How long have you been in practice?
• How many cases like mine have you handled?
• How often do you settle cases out of court?
• What are your fees and costs?
• What are the next steps?
• Want To Check Lawyer Discipline?

It is always a good idea to research your lawyer prior to hiring. Every state has a disciplinary organization that monitors attorneys, their licenses, and consumer complaints. By researching lawyer discipline you can:

• Ensure the attorney is currently licensed to practice in your stat
• Gain an understanding of his or her historical disciplinary record, if any.
• Determine the seriousness of complaints/issues which could range from late bar fees to more serious issues requiring disciplinary action.

Hodson and Mullin located in Fairfield and Vacaville, CA

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Super Lawyers Selection Process Overview

Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented multiphase selection process.

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one of our lawyers to assist you with your legal needs.

Vacaville Office: 707.452.9606 | Fairfield Office: 707.421.7800 

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION, SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY, AND PERSONAL INJURY

Hodson & Mullin has been a preeminent Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability and Personal Injury firm in Solano County for more than 25 years and has been recognized as Law Firm of the Year by the Solano County Bar Association and readers of the Vacaville Reporter. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization has designated our principals as Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Law. We are perennially named among Northern California’s Super Lawyers.

Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The patented selection process includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations.

Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a patented multiphase selection process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with independent research. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. Since Super Lawyers is intended to be used as an aid in selecting a lawyer, we limit the lawyer ratings to those who can be hired and retained by the public.

Read more about Super Lawyers

Workers' Compensation v. Disability Insurance

Workers' Compensation v. Disability Insurance

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HodsonandMullin.com

What is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

Learn about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the two rules to receive it.

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn. At Hodson & Mullin we not only understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades. 

 https://www.hodsonandmullin.com

Personal Injury Compensation Questions

 

If you've been injured and need answers regarding compensation, call Hodson & Mullin, Attorneys At Law. We have the experience to help you when you need it.

Call us at 707-421-7800 or visit our website at HodsonandMullin.com

Can I Reduce My Child Support Payments When My Child is Staying with Me?

Can I reduce my child support payments when my child is staying with me?

Social Security Disability FAQ's From Hodson & Mullin

1. What does Social Security do for disabled people?

If medically and financially qualified, a claimant will receive a very modest monthly cash payment and public medical assistance- first Medi-Cal; then Medicare. Ordinarily, one must wait until age 65 to receive Medicare; so this is the most important benefit for many people. Each person's benefit is calculated based upon his or her own earnings record. Every person's monthly benefit is different.

2. How do I apply?

You can apply in three ways:

By using the Social Security Website on-line www.ssa.gov

By going to any Social Security Agency Local office. You do not need an appointment, but one is recommended. You can find your local office on the Social Security Website www.ssa.gov and

By calling the Social Security National toll-free phone number, 800-772-1213.

You do not need an attorney to apply. There is no fee to file a claim for benefits.

3. Do I Really Need A Lawyer?

You can file with no help from anyone or you can get help from friends and family or you can pay someone. There is no requirement that a person be a lawyer or be certified in order to help you file a claim for benefits. This is a highly technical process – like wiring a house or laying ceramic tile, anyone can do it and like anything, you get what you pay for. You may not need “a lawyer” but you do need someone who knows the law, who knows medicine and who knows how the claims process works.

We know how to use the right words to get your claim started the right way. We know how to get the right evidence to the right place at the right time. We know how to get your claim approved in the shortest amount of time.

See more Questions & Answers at https://www.hodsonandmullin.com/ss-disability

We Help Those In Need To Get Their Social Security Disability

At Hodson & Mullin, we know disabled people need help. Faced with a possible lifetime of great physical pain and a frightening financial future, many are so overwhelmed they don't know where to turn.  At Hodson & Mullin we not only understand, we effectively steer our eligible clients through the Social Security Disability application and appeal processes, with countless successful cases over the decades.

At our firm, a highly experienced legal assistant will spend a great deal of time working with you and gathering records and information to perfect your claim, but your legal questions will be answered by an experienced attorney.

We are registered with the Social Security Administration and when necessary, we appear at actual hearings throughout Northern California to present our clients’ cases effectively, with an eye toward the most favorable outcomes.

Most of our experienced legal assistants are fluent in both English and Spanish, so language is never a barrier to obtaining results.

We are happy to meet with you for an initial consultation without charge to you, and you incur no costs at all unless and until your case is resolved and you receive a settlement or benefits.  Schedule an appointment with us today at our Vacaville or Fairfield offices!

Start your consultation today at https://www.hodsonandmullin.com/ss-disability

Workers' Compensation Services From Hodson and Mullin

Hodson & Mullin’s Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability practice areas are overseen by founding partner, Samuel C. Mullin III, CWCS.  Mr. Mullin is Certified as a Workers Compensation Specialist by the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization and has repeatedly been named a Northern California “Super Lawyer.”  In years past, Mr. Mullin served as Assistant Suisun City Attorney, as a federal prosecutor for the U.S. Air Force, and he is a retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Judge Advocate colonel.

Social Security Disability and California Workers’ Compensation laws are very complex and easily confusing, and frequent changes in the law can make navigating through the claims processes even more difficult.  At Hodson & Mullin, our clients are informed of their legal rights regardless of whether they have suffered an industrial injury in California, are seeking disability benefits through the Social Security Administration, or both.

While adjusters work for insurance companies, Hodson & Mullin works for you! – our injured and disabled clients.  We ensure you know the rights and benefits applicable to your case, such as medical treatment for job-related injuries or illnesses, physical therapy, lifetime medical care options, vocational rehabilitation, temporary and permanent disability payments, death benefits, and settlements, depending on the extent of the injury and other factors.

See more at https://www.hodsonandmullin.com/workers-comp

About Hodson & Mullin Services

Hodson & Mullin has been a preeminent Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury firm in Solano County for more than 25 years and has been recognized as Law Firm of the Year by the Solano County Bar Association and readers of the Vacaville Reporter. The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization has designated our principals as Certified Specialists in Workers’ Compensation Law. We are perennially named among Northern California’s Super Lawyers.

Ours is the only AV-Preeminent rated Workers’ Compensation Law Firm in Solano County, rated by the Martindale-Hubbell and FindLaw ™ directory.

We offer our clients professional legal representation and services in Workers’ Compensation, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury cases. Our staff of attorneys, and our friendly paralegals, legal assistants, and administrative assistants all work hard to ensure the best results for our clients in and out of the courtroom.

We are able to negotiate settlements in the vast majority of our cases, but when litigation is necessary, our principals and associates have the trial experience and level of expertise necessary for effective representation in court. We are one of the few law firms in the North Bay area with Certified Specialists whose staff provides services to Spanish-speaking clients, and with three retired military officers among our lawyers, our own personal military service uniquely positions us to assist military clients.

The Hodson & Mullin firm’s mission is to put clients first, with the goal of minimizing the stress of resolving legal matters. Put our expertise to work for you.

See more at https://www.hodsonandmullin.com/

A Divorce Attorney Explains What's In a Prenuptial Agreement

Before this couple ties the knot, should they consider signing a prenuptial agreement? According to Vikki Ziegler, a divorce attorney who stars on Bravo’s Untying the Knot, it’s an important pre-marital step to consider.