Background
Beginning in the fall of 1988, Mr. Mitchell began experiencing persistent sore throats, coughs, fever, and extreme fatigue. At first, his first treating doctor was unsure what was causing his symptoms. However, he was eventually diagnosed with CFS. CFS is an illness that is characterized by intermittent flu-like symptoms and chronic fatigue. Although it is recognized as a severe disability, it does not have a known infectious cause.
The Claim, Denial, and Lawsuit
Because of the chronic fatigue, Mr. Mitchell had to stop working. He filed his claim for long-term disability benefits. Even though Mr. Mitchell submitted his medical records and several statements from his physicians that supported his symptoms and condition, Metropolitan denied his claim. Kodak reviewed the denial and agreed with Metropolitan because he failed to provide “objective medical evidence” that showed he was unable to work in any gainful occupation.
Mr. Mitchell then filed a lawsuit. The trial court agreed with Mr. Mitchell that he was totally disabled and unable to work in any gainful occupation. Kodak appealed.
The Appellate Court’s Review
On appeal, the Third Circuit concluded that “objective medical evidence” meant clinical evidence of the cause of the disabling condition. The Court held that Kodak was wrong to require such evidence because (1) the Plan did not require it; and (2) it was widely accepted that there was no laboratory test that identified the cause of CFS.
Moreover, upon examining the record, which included Mr. Mitchell’s medical records and the statements from his physicians, the Third Circuit agreed with the trial court and held that Mr. Mitchell was totally disabled and entitled to benefits.
Disability Insurance Companies Have Lawyers. Shouldn’t You?
Because this law firm was created to focus on disability insurance, we have developed an expertise in this complex area of the law.
Our expertise in long-term disability claims means our clients have the backing of a law firm that has:
- Attorneys who are experts in disability claims;
- Fought all major disability insurance companies and know their tactics;
- A track record of success;
- Won major disability lawsuits that created good law; and
- Recovered millions of dollars in disability benefits.
All our lawyers commit every day of their legal career to helping people get disability benefits from UNUM, MetLife, Prudential, Northwestern Mutual, Hartford, CIGNA, and others.
Because federal law applies to most disability insurance claims, we do not have to be located in your state to help. We help clients nationwide.
Call to get experienced disability lawyers on your side with:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim;
- Appealing a short-term or long-term disability denial;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company.
Call for a free consultation with a disability attorney.
