Greetings! Last week, we introduced you to the James Zadroga Act and the main requirements needed to determine eligibility. Today we are going to discuss why you may want to consider working with a lawyer to file a Zadroga and other relevant information.
As a recap from last week, The Zadroga Act 911 Health and Compensation Act of 2011 gave 9/11 victims and their representatives the right to file compensatory claims with the VCF. You are not required to have a lawyer to file a claim for the Zadroga Act – 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund (VCF). The claim form and instructions, as well as deadline information and other considerations, are readily available online at the VCF’s website. However, many 9/11 claimants find it beneficial to be represented by an attorney during this process. Some victim’s have never filed a claim for lost past and future wages and find the thought of gathering the relevant documents overwhelming especially, so many years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. You can file for a claim on behalf of yourself, as the personal representative of someone deceased, as the parent or guardian of a minor, or as the guardian of a non-minor adult.
If you choose to work with an attorney, here are some ways an attorney like The Law Offices of Marjory Cajoux do for you:
- An attorney can help gather medical records from a private physician to verify a physical illness or injury, according to the VCF’s guidelines. In addition, an attorney can help you or a loved one apply for the WTC Health Program if you choose.
- A lawyer can compile records or statements needed as evidence to prove the victim’s presence as a responder, rescue or recovery worker, cleanup worker, or volunteer at the 9/11 site (the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, or the Flight 93 crash site in Shanksville, PA).
- A lawyer can also help gather the documents needed to prove a victim’s employment, residency, or presence in lower Manhattan as a civilian during the attacks and aftermath including at a school or day-care facility.
- These documents include employment records, pay stubs, tax records, personnel rosters, utility bills, and school records verifying enrollment.
- However, the VCF also accepts as proof sworn and notarized affidavits, or unsworn statements complying with federal law, from anyone who can attest to the victim’s presence at a 9/11 site between relevant dates. A lawyer can assist in obtaining these statements or affidavits.
- Whichever attorney you choose, they will file a VCF claim on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve to help you pay for your medical treatment, medical bills, lost wages, and any other expenses you’ve incurred due to your illness or injury.
Our dedicated and compassionate team at The Law Offices of Marjory Cajoux are committed to helping 9/11 survivors and their families to receive the benefits and care that they deserve and need. The events of 9/11 were devastating on many levels, and those who continue to suffer for these past 20 years can have this pain eased, even if just a little, by compensation, to help eliminate the financial burdens they carry. Our personal injury attorneys are compassionate and fully understand the challenges and difficulties our clients face everyday. Contact us today and let our attorneys offer you personalized attention and promise to file a claim and get the best recovery possible.
