Richard A. Gutstadt
614 Grand Avenue
Suite 320
Oakland, CA 94610
Map
Phone: (510) 451-8370 | Fax: (510) 451-7408
http://www.richardgutstadt.com
Legal Help When You Need It
Legal Topic
Government
Sub-Topics
Social Security Disability
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
Number of Attorneys
2
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus
Richard Gutstadt has represented thousands of Social Security and SSI applicants over his 30+ years of law practice. Notwithstanding the increased complexity of physical and mental impairments, Richard has maintained his commitment that every client should be given his or her best chance of winning their claim in front of an Administrative Law Judge. Mr. Gutstadt is eager to share his experience and passion for winning cases with his new associate, Eric Patrick.
Firm History
Richard Gutstadt has been focusing primarily on Social Security disability issues since beginning his solo practice in 1977.
Activities and Awards
Mr. Gutstadt has given numerous lectures and seminars over the years, having presented approximately 20 with the nationally acclaimed National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR).
Example Cases
It is difficult to summarize any one specific case. Suffice it to say, Mr. Gutstadt has represented clients with all types of orthopedic and internal medicine problems, not to mention accompanying mental health issues. It is critical to make sure that all available medical evidence is presented, and that treating physicians are able to provide their support to help establish disability.
What is your firm's point of view regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
It is extremely important that clients understand what it takes to successfully win a Social Security disability case. While knowing the law is very important, it is also extremely important that medical facts and conclusions be presented in a proactive, consistent fashion. It is also very important that the attorney knows the tendencies and philosophy of the individual Administrative Law Judge who will be hearing the client's case. What will it take for the judge to pay the case? How will the judge treat any medical or vocational experts who will testify at the hearing?
Are your attorneys willing to review documents prepared by clients?
Yes.
Are your attorneys willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
No.
Are your attorneys willing to help a client with one discrete part of a case, without taking on the whole case?
No.
What are your policies about dividing work among the firm's partners, associates, and paralegals to make the process most cost-effective for the client?
The work is divided equally among the associate attorneys, with the goal to presenting the case in a timely manner which maximizes our clients' chance of success.
How frequently does your firm use mediation, arbitration, or collaborative law to resolve cases?
N/A
Does your firm provide pro bono legal services or otherwise participate in your community?
Yes.
What distinguishes your law firm from others?
Richard Gutstadt and Eric Patrick attempt to maintain personal and individual attention/priority to each one of their cases. While a certain volume of cases is necessary to sustain the "bottom line" of the law firm, the volume of cases cannot become so great as to dilute the quality of representation, or limit accessibility to an attorney.
Fax
(510) 451-7408
Office Hours
Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Emergency After Hours
No
Foreign Languages
Spanish
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
Richard Gutstadt and Eric Patrick represent individuals only on a contingency basis, charging no more than 25% of past due benefits, not to exceed $6,000, in winning a client’s case. This contractual agreement is consistent with the Federal Social Security statute regulating attorney fees. Initial consultations are part of the contingency nature of the contract.
Hourly Rates
Information coming soon.
Free Initial Consultation?
Information coming soon.
Typical Retainer
Information coming soon.
Nolo's Licensing Check
Attorneys have passed a licensing check. Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the state agency that licenses lawyers upon joining the directory.
Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any state licensing agency.
Find us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Watch us on YouTube
Listen to us on iTunes
