Will an Employer Lawsuit Affect my Disability Claim?

Navigating the complexities of employment law and disability claims can be a daunting task. At J&Y Law Firm in Los Angeles, CA, we understand that the intertwining of legal actions against an employer with disability applications can create a maze of uncertainty and stress for individuals seeking justice and support. The question at the forefront of many of our clients’ minds is: “Could filing a lawsuit against my employer affect my disability application?”

In this blog post, we aim to shine light on this intricate subject by exploring the legal landscapes of employment disputes and disability claims. Whether you are contemplating taking legal action against your employer for wrongful termination, discrimination, or any other employment-related issue, or if you are considering or have already applied for disability benefits, understanding the potential impacts of these actions on each other is crucial.

We will dive into the nuances of both legal areas, providing you with a comprehensive overview that aims to inform, guide, and empower you as you navigate through these challenging waters. Join us as we unpack the complexities of this important topic, offering insights and advice from our years of experience in employment law and disability claims.

So, could filing a lawsuit against my employer affect my disability application?

Filing a lawsuit against your employer can potentially affect your disability application, depending on the nature of the lawsuit and the type of disability benefits you are seeking. Here are some considerations:

1. Type of Disability Benefits: There are different types of disability benefits such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and private disability insurance. The impact of a lawsuit against your employer may vary based on which type of benefits you are applying for. For example, a lawsuit may have less impact on SSDI eligibility since it is based on your work history and the taxes you’ve paid into the Social Security system, rather than your current income and assets.
2. Reason for the Lawsuit: The reason behind your lawsuit can also play a significant role. If your lawsuit is related to wrongful termination or discrimination that led to your disability, this might actually support your disability claim by providing evidence of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. However, if the lawsuit is unrelated to your disability, it may not have a direct impact but could still influence the perceptions of those reviewing your disability claim.
3. Timing and Perception: The timing of your lawsuit relative to your disability application can affect perceptions. If you file a lawsuit after initiating a disability claim, it could be perceived that your inability to work is more related to workplace issues than to your medical condition. Conversely, if your disability claim precedes the lawsuit, it may appear more clearly that your employment issues are a result of your disability.
4. Financial Settlements: If your lawsuit against your employer results in a financial settlement, it could affect your eligibility for certain types of disability benefits, particularly those that are needs-based, like Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Large settlements could be seen as assets, potentially disqualifying you from receiving SSI benefits.
5. Medical Evidence: In both your lawsuit and your disability application, the strength and relevance of medical evidence are crucial. If the evidence presented in your lawsuit contradicts the information in your disability application, it could undermine your claim. Consistency in your medical documentation across both legal actions is key.
6. Legal Advice: Due to the complexities involved, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional like J&Y Law Firm who understands both employment law and disability law. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the potential pitfalls and ensure that your actions in pursuing a lawsuit do not inadvertently harm your disability application.

In conclusion, while filing a lawsuit against your employer can impact your disability application, the extent of this impact depends on various factors including the type of benefits, the reason for the lawsuit, and how the lawsuit is perceived in relation to your disability. Proper legal guidance is essential in managing both processes effectively.

In California, what are the main reasons people are on disability?

In California, as in many other places, the main reasons people are on disability vary widely because disabilities can stem from a range of conditions including physical injuries, mental health issues, chronic diseases, and other medical conditions. However, certain types of conditions are more commonly cited as reasons for disability claims than others. These typically include:

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders: This category includes conditions affecting the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. Common examples are back pain, arthritis, and other spinal disorders, which are significant contributors to disability claims not just in California, but nationwide.
2. Mental Health Conditions: Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, are also leading causes of disability. The impact of mental health on an individual’s ability to work can be significant, leading many affected by these conditions to apply for disability benefits.
3. Cardiovascular Conditions: Heart disease and stroke are other common reasons for disability claims. These conditions can severely limit an individual’s ability to perform work, especially in physically demanding jobs.
4. Cancer: Those undergoing treatment for cancer often experience debilitating side effects and may be unable to work during treatment and recovery. As a result, cancer is a common reason for disability claims.
5. Neurological Disorders: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy, can lead to significant physical and cognitive impairments, making it challenging for affected individuals to maintain employment.

It’s important to note that the prevalence of specific disability causes can vary based on demographics, occupational trends, and other factors. The California Department of Social Services and the Social Security Administration provide resources and statistical data that can offer more insight into specific disability causes within the state. However, these are among the most common reasons cited in disability applications.

How common are lawsuits against employers with people on disability?

Lawsuits against employers by individuals on disability can be relatively common, particularly in contexts involving alleged discrimination, wrongful termination, or failure to accommodate a disability. The prevalence of such lawsuits can be attributed to several factors:

1. Disability Discrimination: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) protect employees from discrimination based on disability. When employees feel they have been discriminated against—for example, through lack of reasonable accommodation, harassment, or unjust dismissal—they may file lawsuits against their employers.
2. Wrongful Termination: If an employee on disability is terminated and believes the termination was due to their disability or request for accommodation, they might file a wrongful termination lawsuit. These cases are more common in scenarios where an employer fails to follow proper legal procedures or does not have legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons for the termination.
3. Retaliation: Employees who have requested accommodations or taken disability leave and then face adverse actions upon return, such as demotion, reduced hours, or termination, might see these actions as retaliation. This is another common ground for lawsuits against employers.
4. Workers’ Compensation: In cases where an employee’s disability is a result of a workplace injury, disputes over workers’ compensation benefits can lead to litigation. Employees might sue if they believe their compensation is inadequate or if their claims are unjustly denied.
5. Failure to Accommodate: Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities, as long as these do not impose an undue hardship on the business. Disagreements over what constitutes a “reasonable accommodation” or an employer’s refusal to provide accommodation can lead to lawsuits.

The frequency of such lawsuits can vary based on several factors, including the size of the employer, the industry, and regional legal cultures. In California, where employment and disability rights laws are particularly robust, there might be a higher propensity for these types of legal actions compared to other regions. Additionally, societal awareness and legal support for disability rights have increased, which may lead more employees to assert their rights through litigation when they believe those rights have been violated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the intersection between employment disputes and disability applications is a complex process fraught with legal nuances and potential pitfalls. At J&Y Law Firm in Los Angeles, CA, we understand that each case is unique, requiring a personalized approach that considers the individual circumstances and legal frameworks at play.

If you are contemplating filing a lawsuit against your employer while on disability, or if you fear that an existing legal battle may impact your disability application, it is crucial to seek expert legal guidance. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring that your actions in the workplace and your disability claims support each other in a manner that is both strategic and lawful.

Remember, the decisions you make today can have long-lasting effects on your future employment and financial well-being. Do not navigate these waters alone. Contact J&Y Law Firm for a consultation at 323-202-2305, and let us help you navigate the best course forward, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

About the Author

Yosi Yahoudai is a founder and the managing partner of J&Y. His practice is comprised primarily of cases involving automobile and motorcycle accidents, but he also represents people in premises liability lawsuits, including suits alleging dangerous conditions of public property, third-party criminal conduct, and intentional torts. He also has expertise in cases involving product defects, dog bites, elder abuse, and sexual assault. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California and is admitted to practice in all California State Courts, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. If you have any questions about this article, you can contact Yosi by clicking here.