Bowes, Petkovich & Palmer, LLC

  Disability is defined as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment or combination of impairments that can be expected to result in death or that has lasted or can be expected to last for at least 12 consecutive months.  This standard is analyzed in 5 steps :   Step 1 – Substantial Gainful Activity:   First, the Social Security Administration (SSA) wants to know if a person is still working.  If someone is working and earning a certain amount each month, SSA will consider them to not be disabled, regardless of any actual disability.  A person will not be able to receive benefits while they are currently engaging in substantial work.   Step 2 – “Severe” Medically Determinable Impairment:   SSA then determines whether a person has a “severe” impairment.  For an impairments to be “severe” it must significantly limit a person’s ability to perform basic work activities. An impairment is “severe”

  In the complex web of finance and law, the guidance of a skilled attorney is often the beacon that leads creditors through the murky waters of bankruptcy. For financial institutions and creditors in Louisiana, the landscape of bankruptcy regulations can seem ever-changing and daunting. However, by understanding the importance of a Louisiana creditor bankruptcy attorney and how they serve creditors' interests, you can ensure that your institution is prepared to navigate the intricacies of the process with precision. The Basics of Creditor Bankruptcy in Louisiana Bankruptcy law is a multifaceted arena containing various pitfalls and opportunities. For creditors, the primary goal is often to recover owed debts or ensure the best possible outcome in a bankruptcy proceeding. Whether you encounter a Chapter 7 liquidation, Chapter 11 reorganization, or Chapter 13 individual repayment, your approach as a creditor necessitates acute legal insight. A creditor bankruptcy attorney in

  Navigating the intricate web of real estate law is akin to wandering through a labyrinth—complex, often disorienting, yet rewarding for those who decipher its paths. In the state of Louisiana, one of the oldest legal systems in the United States, the concept of usufruct stands as a pillar with its own unique set of rules and implications, particularly in the realm of real estate. This comprehensive guide aims to be the beacon that demystifies usufruct, shedding light on its inner workings and pivotal role in the Louisiana real estate landscape. Whether you're a seasoned real estate professional or a burgeoning estate planner, understanding the nuances of usufruct is essential to your practice. Understanding Usufruct: Pillar of Louisiana Law Us-u-fruct. A Latin term that denotes quite a significant portion of Louisiana’s Civil Law—usufruct is the right to use the property and enjoy its fruits, without changing its substance. In Louisiana, it extends beyond expectations, granti

Being injured on the job is a traumatic experience, and navigating the complexities of workers compensation law can add even more stress. Louisiana's unique set of regulations exists to ensure that in the unfortunate event you are hurt at work, you are fairly compensated and receive the medical attention you need. This guide is designed to help you understand the ins and outs of Louisiana workers' compensation law so you can confidently pursue the benefits you are entitled to. An Injured Worker's Essential Rights in Louisiana What is Workers Compensation, and Why Does it Matter? Workers' compensation is a state-administered insurance program that provides certain benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In Louisiana, the law is designed to provide a safety net for workers who are hurt on the job, which may cover medical costs, lost wages, and disability benefits. Louisiana's Workers Compensation Law is crucial for injured workers a

In the intricate tapestry of estate planning, the thread inscribed with the name of a tutor plays a pivotal role, especially when it comes to ensuring a seamless transition of care for minor children. This overlooked yet vital provision within a will can be the cornerstone that secures your offspring's future with a caregiver you trust. Parents often focus on the financial aspects of their legacy, but what about the guardianship of their most precious assets— their children? We dive into the critical reasons why naming a tutor in your will is not only significant but a necessary consideration for the future of your family. The Crux of Naming a Tutor in Your Will Protecting the Well-being of Minor Children "Guardianship" is a weighty term that echoes a world of responsibilities and trust. When you pass away, having a tutor named in your will ensures that your child is not left at the cusp of uncertainty. The tutor steps into the role of the parent as their legal gua

  Initial Application: When pursuing  Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits one first fills out the initial application.  This can be done in person, by phone, or online, and one should include medical records.  The finished application is then submitted to the Social Security Administration (SSA) who sends it to Disability Determination Services (DDS).  DDS then reviews your claim.  The determination process usually takes 3 to 6 months after which you will receive a determination letter from the SSA. Reconsideration: If your application is denied, you have 60 days to file a request for reconsideration with the SSA.  Hiring an experienced attorney at this step is very important.  He or she will be able to review your initial application and determine if any additional evidence needs to be presented or any information needs to be presented differently.  Your attorney will file the request for reconsideration for you and help gather any a