Derek S Cervoni

I was a federal employee that found myself no longer able to work due to having Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which was complicated by injuries from an auto accident. In order to apply for federal disability retirement you're required to apply for SSDI. I thought that if I was going to apply, I might... as well do it with the intention to win because neither disability retirement would be enough on their own. I found Mr. Cervoni's name on a list of recommended EDS-aware doctors, provided by the EDS Society. He was very knowledgeable of my condition which was a huge plus. Being so ill, including sleeping through numerous days, it was difficult for me to work up the energy to call him after that initial call (where I only left a vm). He was so diligent in calling me back that I probably would've just let it go were it not for him trying so hard to reach me, not just my voicemail. That was another plus, which showed he's used to working with people that are so ill that making or answering calls is extremely difficult. From our first conversation, I felt very well taken care of and understood. Aside from providing my medical records and answering some questions, I really didn't have to be involved in the process and he was diligent about keeping me up to date on the case, even when there was nothing new to report. He returns calls and emails pretty much immediately (unless he's in a hearing or outside of regular/reasonable hours), which if you've ever had to hire an attorney before, you know is a rare thing. He also kept me informed of what to expect next, as well as how to respond, so there were no surprises and I always felt prepared. Nine months after contacting Mr. Cervoni I was awarded with SSDI. I had truly expected to have the rollercoaster nightmare that you always hear about, especially since I'm younger. I also expected, also due to my age, that if I were to be awarded SSDI it would only be a temporary, conditional award. This wasn't the case. The whole process, thanks to both my being organized with my records and Mr. Cervoni understanding both my ailment and the process so thoroughly was easier and faster than I had ever imagined possible. I would recommend his services to anyone I know in his region of practice. Before getting in contact with Mr. Cervoni I had reached out to other SSDI attorneys and I still haven't received a call back from them. When you leave it in his hands you can truly focus on what matters, your health.

Dealing with a severely disabling chronic illness can be treacherous on many fronts. Aside from the daily pain of living with disease, having SSA dismiss your case only adds insult to injury. Mr. Cervoni took on our case when another disability lawyer wouldn't due to the complicated nature of the dis...ease. Not only was he there every step of the way during the multiple appeals processes, he was quick to answer any and all questions in a timely manner and guided us through the disability hearing process. During the hearing with an administrative law judge, Mr. Cervoni was thorough and compassionate. We were pleased when the judge returned with a fully favorable decision.

Derek and his office provided excellent guidance through the process of applying for SSI for my son. His thorough knowledge of what is required to be submitted, enabled us to have a complete package the first time through. He is extremely easy to work with and very responsive to questions, whether ...by phone or email. I highly recommend him!