Michael Mitchell stopped working after developing chronic fatigue syndrome, restless legs syndrome, hemochromatosis, and major depressive disorder. Treating physicians documented profound fatigue, sleep disruption, cognitive impairment, and reduced stamina that prevented sustained work activity. MetLife denied long-term disability benefits by relying on non-examining file reviewers who discounted treating-provider assessments and emphasized the lack of objective […]
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Shane v. Albertson’s Inc.
Stacey Shane began receiving long-term disability benefits after a knee injury prevented her from continuing her job duties. Benefits were approved and paid for an extended period under the plan in effect at the time her disability began. After a later recertification process, Albertson’s terminated benefits and denied her appeal. The plan argued that later […]
Welch v. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co.
Welch filed suit challenging MetLife’s denial of long-term disability benefits. Approximately six months after litigation began, MetLife paid the claim in full, converting the case into a dispute over attorney’s fees incurred to obtain payment. The district court substantially reduced the fee award, lowering hourly rates and imposing across-the-board reductions based on billing practices. The […]
Opeta v. Northwest Airlines Pension Plan for Contract Employees
Ioane John Opeta sought a disability pension based on total and permanent disability after medical conditions forced him to stop working. The pension plan denied benefits, asserting that Opeta did not meet the plan’s disability definition. Kantor & Kantor challenged how the plan interpreted and applied its disability standard, including how medical evidence must be […]
