Kantor & Kantor Achieves Landmark Victory in ERISA Disability Appeal Against Sun Life

Landmark Victory for Disability Claims in the Second Circuit

In a pivotal ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, Kantor & Kantor, LLP has secured a significant victory for their client, Kristen Schuyler, against the Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada. This decision marks a crucial turning point regarding employee rights and long-term disability claims under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

The case revolves around Schuyler's long-term disability benefits that were denied following a traumatic brain injury she suffered in 2015. This injury has left her with persistent cognitive and physical impairments affecting her everyday life and work capability. Following her injury, Schuyler had resigned from her position at Benco Dental Supply Company, where she entered into a severance agreement, assuring her that this agreement would not impede her pursuit of claims against Sun Life. However, Sun Life took a different stance, asserting that the agreement barred her from claiming the benefits she was entitled to under ERISA.

The appellate court's ruling vacated the earlier decision made by the district court that had favored Sun Life. The Second Circuit determined that Schuyler had not knowingly and voluntarily waived her rights by signing the separation agreement. The court underscored that such waivers require stringent judicial scrutiny as per ERISA norms. The judges assessed the communications between Schuyler and Benco concerning the agreement's implications, emphasizing the circumstances surrounding its signing.

Glenn R. Kantor, founding partner at Kantor & Kantor, expressed the importance of the ruling, stating, *"This decision serves as a crucial reminder that disability insurers cannot evade their responsibilities by leveraging obscure contract language or technicalities. It reinforces the principle that individuals should have the right to seek justice when their legitimate claims are unjustly denied."

This decision has far-reaching implications for other similar cases across the United States. It clarifies that individuals facing unjust denial of disability benefits possess a robust legal pathway to challenge such decisions. By reopening Schuyler's case, it not only reinstates her claim but strengthens protections for all workers navigating the convoluted waters of insurance disputes.

As one of the leading law firms representing plaintiffs in insurance claims, Kantor & Kantor has built a reputation for fighting against such unjust practices, ensuring that many others can claim the benefits they deserve. The firm, located in Northridge, California, has a long history of victories in landmark cases under ERISA and private insurance law, empowering plaintiffs across the nation.

The ruling also sheds light on the need for constant vigilance among employees regarding their rights under ERISA and the complexities involved in signing any agreements with their employers. It serves as a clarion call for all individuals to seek legal counsel before signing agreements that may affect their benefits.

In conclusion, this ruling is a beacon of hope for numerous individuals struggling with similar challenges against their insurance providers. It not only reassures employees about their entitlements but also affirms the commitment of Kantor & Kantor to uphold the rights of plaintiffs within the insurance landscape.

For those needing assistance with insurance claims or understanding their rights under ERISA, Kantor & Kantor remains an invaluable resource, dedicated to helping clients navigate these challenging situations.