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Police & Fire

First Responders: What to Do If You Get a Non-Work Injury

As a first responder, your life is dedicated to serving and protecting others. But what happens when you’re the one who gets injured, and it’s not related to your job? Navigating the complexities of insurance, medical care and time off can be overwhelming, especially when your injury doesn’t fall under workers’ compensation. Here's what you need to know and the steps you should take if you experience a non-work-related injury.

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Workers' Comp

My Workers' Compensation Treatment was Denied. What Do I Do Now?

Dealing with a workplace injury is tough enough, but receiving a denial for your workers' compensation treatment can be overwhelming. Workers’ compensation is meant to provide the necessary medical care to help you recover and get back on your feet. When treatment is denied, it might feel like the system is working against you. Fortunately, a denial isn't the end of the road. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps you can take if your workers' compensation treatment has been denied.

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Social Security

What Do I Need to Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can feel overwhelming, especially when you're managing the challenges of a serious health condition. Knowing the qualifications and requirements is the first step toward getting the support you need. Here’s a guide to help you determine if you meet the criteria and how to prepare for the application process.

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Veterans, Local Representation

Black & Jones Wins 100% Rating for Vietnam Veteran with Ischemic Heart Disease

A veteran who served during the Vietnam Era was exposed to herbicide agents, including agent orange. Almost four decades after his service ended in 1969, he was diagnosed with hypertension. As the years went on, he developed other cardiac conditions such as bradycardia, carotid artery stenosis, atrial fibrillation cerebrovascular disorder and more. He finally applied for service-connected compensation for these cardiac issues, but the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) denied his claim indicating that his conditions were not service connected. Feeling discouraged and ignored by his country, he sought representation with Black & Jones.

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Workers' Comp

How Long Will It Take to Receive My Workers' Compensation Claim?

After a workplace injury, one of the first concerns many people have is how long it will take to receive their workers’ compensation benefits. The process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of recovery and financial uncertainty. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the steps involved and the potential timeline can help you set realistic expectations.

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Police & Fire

How the Heart & Lung Act Protects You

As a first responder—whether you’re a firefighter, paramedic or EMT—you face unique risks that can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease or lung damage. But did you know that there isn’t actually a separate law called the “Heart & Lung Act”? Instead, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act offers special protections under Section 6(f). This section grants essential benefits for first responders diagnosed with specific conditions due to the nature of their job.

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