Did you know that over 20% of the population has some form of disability? That’s more than one billion people worldwide. And yet, this large and often overlooked group is often left out of the conversation regarding policy and legislation. This is especially true in our present society, where the needs of people with disabilities are often ignored.
Legal protections are also required for those who are disabled. According to research by the Disability Research Institute, around a fifth of the population, or 53 million people, has a disability. One of every 10 Americans is dealing with a critical disability. Most Americans will face disability at some point in their lives, whether due to an accident or aging. Unfortunately, these people’s legal problems are frequently overlooked.
That’s why having a legal representative is important as part of your disability support network. This type of arrangement can help ensure that all of your legal and financial needs are taken care of and provide much-needed peace of mind. Some of the benefits of having a legal representative are:
Helps in getting proper services
Disability benefits can be a lifeline for people with disabilities and their families. Some services that people with disability needs are:
- Access to early intervention services
- Special education services
- Home and community-based services
- Employment support
These services can be very expensive, so it’s essential to have a legal representative to help you get the funding you need to cover the cost of these services. They can also help you navigate the often-complex process of applying for these services. Sometimes, people with disabilities cannot get the services they need because they don’t know how to apply for them or don’t have the necessary documentation. A legal representative can help you with all of that.
Guidance and support in securing disability benefits
Many benefits are available to people with disabilities; disability claims from insurance companies are the most common. These benefits can help to cover the cost of disability-related expenses, such as medical bills, rehabilitation, and more. It can also provide a source of income for people who are unable to work because of their disability.
However, applying for and claiming these benefits can be complicated and time-consuming. And in some cases, insurance companies reject valid claims to save money. A legal representative can help you navigate the process and ensure you get the disability insurance benefit claims you need in a timely manner. Also, suppose you are already receiving disability benefits. In that case, a legal representative can help you file for a disability review to renew your benefits. It can be daunting if you file it independently and have limited knowledge about it.
Assurance that you will be represented in any legal proceedings
If you have a disability, there is always the possibility that you will need to go to court. This could be for several reasons, such as if you are the victim of abuse or if you need to file for guardianship. This guardianship is extremely important if you have a disability because it gives the person that you designate the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf.
If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to have a legal representative who can represent you in court and ensure that your rights are protected. This is especially true if you are not able to speak for yourself or if you are not able to understand the legal proceedings. They will be able to advocate on your behalf and ensure that you receive a fair hearing.
Protection from exploitation or abuse
Unfortunately, people with disabilities are often taken advantage of by those who are supposed to care for them. This can include family members, caregivers, or even strangers. A legal representative can help protect you from this type of exploitation or abuse by ensuring that your rights are upheld and that you are treated fairly.
They can ensure that your rights are respected by representing you in any legal proceedings that may arise from the abuse. Legal representation can also help you to file for a restraining order if necessary. The common issue is that you need a restraining order if the person is threatening you or stalking you to take advantage of your benefits.
Peace of mind that someone is protecting you
When living with a disability, it’s important to have someone in your corner who is looking out for you and your best interests when it comes to legal matters. Frequently, family members or caregivers cannot do this because they are not familiar with the disability law. A legal representative can provide that for you.
A legal representative can provide peace of mind by being your advocate and ensuring your rights are protected. They can also help you navigate the often-complex disability legal system to get the benefits and services you need. This is very helpful with the legal and financial aspects of your life. This arrangement can be an invaluable resource for you and your family.
Have your legal support network in place
A disability support network is a group of people who can offer you emotional, practical, and financial support. It’s essential to have a disability support network in place so that you can get the help you need when you need it. And a legal representative can be a vital part of that disability support network. They’ll give you the sense of security that someone is watching for you and your best interests.
