A former partner at global law firm Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker LLP recently lost his suit against First Reliance Standard Life Insurance Co. over a denied disability claim. The partner asserted that he was unable to work due to chronic fatigue syndrome.
Despite his allegations, Judge Cristina D. Silva ruled in the insurance company’s favor, citing that the partner failed to provide sufficient evidence that his condition hindered his ability to work. Her decision was primarily based on the partner’s chronic fatigue diagnosis, which appeared to rely wholly on self-reported symptoms. Moreover, she also noted that the only proof suggesting the man’s inability to work was his subjective assessment and support letters from his wife and mother.
The partner, who was with the defense litigation firm from 2010 to 2018, asserted that his disability was due to his chronic fatigue syndrome. However, Judge Silva found his claim unsubstantiated. It was pointed out that disability benefits are not granted merely on self-reporting symptoms without substantial medical or other relevant evidence.
This case signifies the challenges faced by claimants attempting to secure disability benefits based on chronic fatigue – a syndrome often based heavily on self-reported symptoms. It highlights the critical need for comprehensive supporting evidence beyond just personal and family testimonials.
For full details of the case, you can read the official court opinion.
For more details on the story, visit Bloomberg Law.