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William Sydney Coffman Jr.

Insurance Attorney at Tampa, FL

5.0   20 reviews
  • State Years
    Florida - FL 23 years
    Ohio - OH 27 years
  • Licensed for 23 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 27 years
    State OH
    Acquired 1995
    Status
    Inactive No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About William

Learn William’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area
  1. Insurance
    100%
    Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance litigation, primarily under the ERISA statute, is ALL we do. We also practice Disability Insurance Appellate Litigation in the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals & are licensed to practice before the Supreme Court.

 

Coffman Law specializes in disability insurance litigation, serving the residents of Florida when their disability claims are denied by their insurance companies. It can be frustrating and frightening when this happens, because insurance companies often deny benefits just when you most need them. We can help you get the benefits you need and deserve.

After your claim has been denied, you have a limited amount of time to appeal the denial. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney can usually improve your appeal. We can help you prepare your case and help you through the process. We’ve helped thousands of people with ERISA disability insurance cases. We can help you too.

At Coffman Law, we know that grace and diplomacy are the best ways to get results. It can be difficult to stay level-headed when your livelihood is in someone else's hands, as it is in the case of a disability claim denial. Our experienced team regularly works with administrators on behalf of our clients. One of our biggest assets is our reputation for remaining diplomatic while zealously advocating our client’s interests. This reputation allows us to be more efficient and effective as we present a strong case in support of your best interests.

Contact us today if your disability insurance claim has been denied, and schedule your free strategy session.

Bar Admissions
  • Ohio, 1995
  • Florida, 1999
  • U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida, 2000
  • U.S. District Court Northern District of Ohio, 1996
  • U.S. District Court Southern District of Florida, 2002
  • U.S. District Court Northern District of Florida, 2002
  • U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Circuit, 2002
  • U.S. Supreme Court, 2006
Education
  • Cleveland State University, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland, Ohio
    • J.D. - 1995
    • Honors: Outstanding Student in Trial Advocacy
    • Honors: Am Jur in Trial Advocacy
  • Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
    • B.A. cum laude - 1983
    • Honors: Several Awards in Creative Writing
    • Major: English
  • The John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
    • M.A. - 1985
    • Honors: Teaching Fellowship; Published short fiction
    • Major: Writing Seminars
  • University of Arkansas
    • M.F.A. - 1988
    • Major: Creative Writing
Fraternities/Sororities
  • Delta Tau Delta

Photos and videos

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Contact William

Similar lawyers nearby

Coffman Law
15436 N. Florida Avenue
Tampa, FL, 33613
The Law Offices of William S Coffman Jr
15436 N Florida Ave Ste 103
Tampa, FL, 33613-1225
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  20 customer reviews
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Posted by Rory | March 28, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Team
I had the privilege to be a client of Coffman Law. Mr. Coffman, Ms. Denae and David were just amazing to work with. Although, the circumstances that sent me to them were very stressful the Coffman team kept me grounded. They were professional in everything the did and made me and my family feel like family. When the insurance company that my employment uses for short term disabality refused to pay and reviewed and denied my STD 3 times and stated my illnesses and disabilities would not keep me from working I hired Coffman Law to represent me and my family. Before I hired Mr. Coffman I had interviewed at least 5 other attorneys that are probably good at what the do but I didn't feel that they truly cared about me, the I interviewed Mr. Coffman. This team is not just about getting your money, you can feel they truly care about the people the represent. The Coffman team got my STD approve and back pay paid. They also got my LTD approved. If you need help with your STD or LTD I highly recommended Mr. Coffman and team at Coffman Law.
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Posted by Jeff | July 10, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great firm, Great results!!
Coffman Law was great to work with on my complex case. Mr. Coffman was very knowledgeable concerning the process and strategy needed to win my case. The office staff was excellent, great communication always available and on top of what needed to be done. overall just a pleasure to work with. i would highly recommend them for any disability insurance litigation.
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Posted by Candence | March 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney
Mr. Coffman is a great attorney and I am so great full and blessed to have been sent to him when I needed someone to fight for me and my rights. I will always recommend MrCoffman to anyone needing his expertise.
Posted by Cynthia | August 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT, COMPASSIONATE, HONEST
The words above immediately come to mind to describe the staff as well as my experience with Coffman Law. Mr Coffman, David, Denae, and Tiffany were integral to the successful outcome of my disability case. After losing two appeals for disability with an insurance company, I was discouraged and worried it was not worth pursuing. I’m fortunate to have retained Coffman Law. From my initial consultation with the knowledgeable and empathetic, Mr Coffman, throughout the entire process, I felt represented and had people advocating for me. I never had to “check in” for information; I was updated at every juncture via phone or email. David, Denae and Tiffany are great assets to the firm. Many thanks to all at Coffman Law for helping me.
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Posted by Janine | August 1, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank Goodness for Mr Coffman
Everyone at his office is very professional and friendly. I did not feel like just another client, I felt that my case was the only one Mr Coffman had. Denae and Tiffany were more than willing to answer any questions I had during the process. I would highly recommend Mr Coffman to go to bat for you against the short and long term disability companies. Don’t give up!
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Posted by John Ash | June 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
LDT Success Story
Coffman Law got the job done without any hassles and their staff is so helpful and friendly I actually enjoyed calling them!
Posted by Jesus | October 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Short/Long Term Disability
If you are having a bad experience while getting or trying to get disability, seek advice from lawyer specializing in disability. I did my homework and it was clear that Coffman Law is the best out there! He has many cases with a successful outcome and the best thing is that he can litigate your case as well. I called him, hired him, he set up everything, and he will lay out your options. I chose an option, and had a successful outcome. Don't let insurance companies dictate and deny your benefits. Call Coffman Law!!
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Posted by Angel | June 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney to represent you. Highly Recommended!!!
I cannot thank enough Coffman Law for assisting me in getting my benefits when my insurance company continue to deny them over and over even with proof of my of my disability and me submitting to the all my info. Mr. Coffman and his staff are very knowledgeable and are real people with empathy to your cause. They each have been through something and know what it is to be denied your rights especially when it comes to disability. They were always in communication with me via phone or email and kept me up to date with everything that was going on with my case. Most importantly their professionalism, expertise and their willingness to fight for you is what is I admire most because they also made me feel like family. I would recommend them to anyone who is being denied their benefits because this firm and their staff will go all out for you in representing you against the insurances that are practicing bad faith against you and your disability. Thank you soo much Coffman Law and may God bless you all!
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Posted by Nancy | April 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Litigation Attorney
Mr.coffman and staff were very helpful to me. I wwas receiving long term disabilty for over 13 years,then suddenly cut off for no reason i call margan@margan they gave me the name of best litigation Attorney Mr.William Coffman. Mr.Coffman@ staff work hard on my case and won a large settlement for me, I'm proud to have been one of his clients it really paid off within 10months i was living off 598.s.s.d when i was cut from my long term disability I thank Jah. For this las firm. I highly recommend his law firm for anyone who is looking for justics against those fraudulent insurance company. THANK YOU MR.Coffman@Staff
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Posted by Ken | March 10, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best team in Florida!
Coffman Law was the right choice for me,and I strongly believe that they are the only choice for anyone seeking help when dealing with an insurance company regarding Short Term/Long Term disability. I did a lot of research in advance and found Coffman Law to be the clear choice. I highly recommend them! After contacting Coffman Law with a very challenging case, Mr Coffman and his team got right to work. I felt that a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. Mr Coffman explained each step of the process in detail to me. Every question and phone call I made to Coffman Law was met with courteous and knowledgeable answers in a very timely manor, if not immediately. I felt like the team truly cared about me, and that like I was their only client and top priority at all times. I cannot say enough good things about the entire team. Mr Coffman personally handles all cases....... and he knows his stuff! He is Extremely passionate about winning. Mr Coffman will fight with everything he has to win your case. I have never felt like I was in more capable hands. Thank you to Mr Coffman and the team at Coffman law!
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Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Integrity A++++
I could not be more pleased as I am with this law firm !! I inquired about a LTD claim against one of the biggest insurance company for Heath , life , and pretty much any kind of policy that has to do with insurance ! When I contacted law firm I was so kindly greeted by Denae who is Mr. Coffmans assistant. She is very kind and courteous, and also very knowledgable in the job she performs !! She showed me urgency in getting the ball rolling , and within a 1 day Mr. Coffman called me and interviewed me to where he came to the decision that he could help me in my case , and then asked me if I was interested in hiring his law firm to represent me ? Of course I said yes , and with in 2 days I had the contracts in my mailbox . Now when I hired him I had already filed an appeal with insurance company , as I was terminated from my benefits at no fault of my own ! The doctors office assistant had sent to ins. Co. The wrong report to where they were under the impression that I was fully released back to work at full capacity, which was not the case , as me and Dr. never discussed yet !! That is why I seeked counsel . To make this long story shorter ! Mr. Coffman sent company letter of representation, and filed necessary paper work , and spent money out of the firm's pocket for all these necessary documents! Well within 2 weeks of notice of representation my appeal was approved with co. , and necessary action was taking to get me my benefits , and was sent within a week or so in both names ! Coffman Law Firm / Randy Cox ! I was notified by Denae that my check had arrived and she would get in mail to me right away , and to please sign paperwork and return to us . About an hour later I called back and told Denae that I will just come pick it up as I was only a little over an hour away . She said that was fine , and real reason I wanted to go pick it up was to meet the people that put up with me calling , emailing , etc.... When I arrived I was greeted by Denae who never met me and first words out of her mouth was " hello Mr. Cox , then Mr. Coffman dropped what he was doing and came out to meet me as well ! He told me that they came to a decision as a law firm that they felt they did not do enough in this case , and since I filed the appeal before hiring them , that they felt I pretty much handle on my own , and would not be charging me there fee that I agreed with ! I have to tell you I was floored with gratitude not only for them waving there fee , but they did it as a whole ! Not just Mr Coffman himself ! He allowed the whole firm be part of the decision, which I thought was awesome ! Not to mention there was a financial report I did see when I got home which verified to me that the firm spent money out of there pocket , and did not even collect that ! Not every bodies case will go this way , but the professionalism , and courtesy of this firm I tell anyone that reads this that you will be in the best hands being represented by The Coffman Law Firm ! Thank you from the bottom of my heart Denae , David , and Mr. Coffman !! I am sure there are many more also that I did not get to meet that was a part of the decision in my case !! Thank you , and God bless you all ! Randy - Port Charlotte, Fl.
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Posted by Kendra | August 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Pleased
I was refused Long Term Disability and I knew my case would be a difficult one. Mr. Coffman and his associates were very helpful and professional. The whole process was painless and the end result good.
Posted by Deb | July 19, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Satisfied Client
I was pleased with the handling of my case. The staff acted in an efficient and professional manner. I would recommend this attorney and firm to others.
Posted by Janice | July 19, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Could Not Be Happier!
Earlier this year (2016) I was in need of a good attorney to help me fight an uphill battle against one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S., who had denied both my Short Term and Long Term Disability claims. After numerous phone calls to local attorneys, I discovered that there is only one attorney truly qualified to take up my fight because my particular case was an ERISA case. I don't personally know of any other attorneys that handle ERISA claims. Only through a referral from another attorney was I able to find Coffman Law. The referral to Mr. Coffman was the best thing that could happen. From the start Mr. Coffman advised that he would work hard for me, assuring me he would take my case to the highest courts possible - he felt that good about his ability to win. Being denied STD and LTD by my employer's insurance company caught me totally off guard. I had no idea how I would ever survive without any income based on the insurance company's denial of my claims. Once I spoke with Mr. Coffman, I felt that he was my "angel in disguise". Right up front he explained what he could and would do for me. Patience is not one of my virtues, but he told me to hang in there. With his level of confidence about my case I trusted him implicitly. That trust paid off 7 mos. later when I was awarded both STD and LTD and received all the back pay owed to me. If you are ever in a situation where you need a good benefits attorney, Coffman Law is who you need to contact. His whole team (David, Denae, Tiffany) worked diligently and kept me up to date on everything that was going on. They are all very kind and are, "hands down", the best law firm I have had the pleasure to work with. I highly recommend you give them a call if you have any problems with benefits you may have been denied. You won't regret it!
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Posted by Tim | July 16, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Coffman Law: Excellent representation on my LTDI case.
I can’t overstate how satisfied I am in working with Coffman Law on my case. I found the staff to be extremely professional and competent, yet courteous and never condescending. Mr. Coffman made me feel comfortable with the entire process from start to end, thoroughly explaining the (lengthy) sequence of actions in advance, and setting appropriate expectations for each step along the way. He and staff kept me well informed as the process unfolded, and answered all of my questions promptly. In the end, Mr. Coffman clearly did his homework, becoming very familiar with my condition (a critically important item) and case details. He was fully prepared when we pressed our case, and the favorable results prove it. Working with Coffman Law also gave me a renewed sense of appreciation for the valuable role that attorneys play in protecting the ‘little guy’ from the callous greed of others, or in this case, a LTD insurance company. I would not hesitate to recommend Coffman Law.
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Posted by Jeff | July 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Disability Attorney
I had been denied by my employer's Short Term Disability insurer (Cigna) for coverage and my appeal was denied as well. This was due to the rare nature of my disability. Instead of focusing on my health and trying to find a way to get better, I was spending way too much time and effort doing work for, and fighting with, the insurance company. Mr. Coffman and his team were a lifesaver. His knowledge and guidance were exactly what we needed. He and his staff took the time to explain things I didn't understand and really took charge. They were very empathetic and did a fantastic job dealing with the insurance company and fighting for me. They were very proactive as well in anticipating things that the insurance company might do or ask for. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney and team to work with. They were able to get the STD and LTD benefits for me that we needed. We are so happy and grateful to Mr. Coffman and his team for their hard work, compassion, and professionalism. Should my disability condition not improve prior to my LTD benefits running out, we will certainly go back to Coffman Law to try and get an extension.
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Posted by Elisa | July 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Coffman Law is the best law group for representing clients who have had their Long Term Disability Benefits Denied
I had my LTD Benefits denied two previous times before I hired Coffman Law so I knew I had to have the best on my last Appeal to a Large Disability Insurance Co. Coffman Law Cares & were recommended to me by one of the most reputable firm in Jax., FL. They handled my case with empathy, provided a team of specialists in the Disability Processes, ensured any critical medical documentation was prepared & supporting documents were obtained. Since Coffman Law has been representing clients who have been denied benefits for many years, with a impressive success rate, the commercial Disability Carriers recognize their name & are aware of their outstanding reputation. They were successful in my case, my benefits were reinstated & my backpay was paid promptly. I highly recommend Attorney Coffman & his entire staff at Coffman Law!
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Posted by Bonita | July 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Coffman Law
After being denied benefits owed to me, and other attorneys that promised to help, but did not, I was fortunate enough to find Mr. Coffman and his wonderful staff. Mr. Coffman, David, Denae, and Tiffany worked long and hard to fight my battles for me. Extremely knowledgeable, and competent, they treated me like family and went over and above for me. I am forever grateful. I highly recommend this firm.
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Posted by Randi | June 22, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Attorney
Coffman Law was OUTSTANDING! It was a true pleasure to deal with such a professional staff. I have had worked with another law firm that never returned phone calls and asked me to send them paperwork. Coffman law did all the leg work and just kept me informed. Mr. Coffman spoke with me and went over my options and how he would handle this case and what to expect. He handled my case in a timely manner and the end result was what he said he it would be. I am so thankful for Mr. Coffman and his staff, they are truly a great law firm!
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Posted by anonymous | January 21, 2014
ERISA case
Handled ERISA matter against a major LTD Insurer. We decided to settle over the difficult law which I was a little upset by, but think was the right decision. I missed some deadline, and think law favors insurers over the insured. He was knowledgable in a field that I hear not many attys will handle. Insurance company took advantage of my statement of appeal being verbal. Put yours in writing! The only reason he didnt get 5 stars all the way is he missed my mentioning that I had them email me a rejection letter (as I was in disbelief after they long before told me that I should be approved from the start... this was 8 months later when they were supposed to respond quickly yet had 6 months to respond. Before realizing there was a hard date of reciept (as they never sent a certified letter) he was confident we would win full value. So was surprised later when he went over fine details and saw. In all reality, I only mentioned it one second in much conversation so only a little disappointed, and it was early on when other details were the focus. I still like him and was glad he told me the options at that point, a d was honest that win or loss may well depend on what judge would be assigned due to the technicality. So, it didnt go perfectly, but I would have gotten nothing without him, and would have felt taken advantage of by insurance more fully than in they end where I got a sixth of total possible value (2 yrs backpay which equaled about 1 yrs full salary) -after- the portion that went to pay atty. it became an issue of date of reciept and I waited a few too many days before I worked up the courage to call a lawyer. He said there was a chance we coule win anyways due to my disabilites making me gullible and it being in a close timeframe and this or that, but I was broke and while tempted to gamble, it was important to not risk loosing at that time.
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Cost

Rates
  • Contingency 30%-30%

Resume

AVVO RATING 7.3 (Very Good)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Coffman Law
  • 2003 - Present

Education

  • Cleveland State University - Cleveland-Marshall College of Law
  • Doctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor
  • 1995
  • University of Arkansas At Fayetteville
  • MFA
  • 1988
  • The Johns Hopkins University
  • M.A.,
  • 1985
  • Case Western Reserve University
  • B.A.,
  • 1983
View all education

Legal Cases

  • Creel v. Wachovia Corporation
  • Summary judgment vacated and remanded.
  • Menard v Hartford
  • Judgment for Plaintiff, along with attorneys' fees.

Associations

  • Carrollwood Community Bar Association
  • 2005 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • American Jurisprudence Award
  • Lawyers Cooperative Publishing
  • 1996
  • Spangenberg Trial Practice Award
  • Cleveland-Marshall College of Law
  • 1996

Attorney endorsements

Received (3)
Given (0)
Endorse William
Employee benefits Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Bill Coffman is an excellent attorney. There are not many attorneys who handle ERISA claims. I have referred many clients who need help getting their short term or long term disability benefits. He always returns their calls and answer their questions. He has helped people throughout the entire State of Florida. I would highly recommend Mr. Coffman."
Employee benefits Attorney | Jun 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Bill Coffman is an outstanding attorney and consummate professional. He provides a high level of customer service and is a caring and compassionate resource."
Employee benefits Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have referred many people to Bill for private disability matters and he has always handled the cases with class and professionalism. He is top notch in my book!"
This attorney hasn't created any attorney endorsements recently on Avvo.