Long-term disability insurance claims present a complex intersection of insurance law, contract principles, and federal statutory regulation. A significant portion of these matters arise under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), which governs most employer-sponsored disability plans and places those claims squarely within federal jurisdiction. In contrast, individually purchased policies—often held by professionals and executives—operate under different legal frameworks, as do association-based disability plans offered through professional organizations.

This CLE course provides attorneys with a practical and strategic understanding of how to navigate the unique challenges presented by long-term disability claims across these various policy types. Particular attention will be given to ERISA-governed claims, including the highly regulated administrative process, the limited scope of review, and the strict procedural deadlines that can determine the outcome of a case before litigation even begins. Failure to comply with these requirements can permanently bar recovery and expose practitioners to professional risk.

Participants will examine how disability claims evolve from initial filing through denial, appeal, and, where necessary, federal litigation. The course will address common grounds for claim denials, delays, and terminations, and will explore effective methods for building a strong administrative record that preserves arguments for court review. Attendees will also gain insight into the substantive and procedural distinctions between ERISA and non-ERISA claims, including how medical evidence, policy language, and insurer practices shape outcomes.