Hartwig Law Firm - May/June 2022

Hartwig Law Firm - May/June 2022

THE ADVISOR

Music plays a significant role in our lives whether we realize it or not. For many of us, part of our morning routine is turning the radio to our favorite station on our commute to work. When we leave work, we may listen to a song to help us unwind. Even if you don’t regularly listen to music, we’ve all had a song playing in a store get stuck in our heads for days on end. On June 21, we celebrate World Music Day, and I think it’s the perfect opportunity to share how one artist greatly influenced my life. When I was growing up in the early 1980s, Bruce Springsteen was a huge deal. All of my older cousins and siblings listened to him, and I got my first true taste in 1984 when his album “Born in the U.S.A.” was released. I must have memorized every song on that record, and many of them resonated with me, even as a kindergarten student. Over the years, I became more and more interested in Springsteen, his music, and his message. Bruce knew that life can be really tough, and it’s even more difficult to get ahead. Springsteen discusses the struggles of the working class in many of his songs, and I could see those within my own family. One side of my family was filled with steelworkers, while the Music for the Working Class THE MUSICAL INSPIRATION IN MY LIFE

MAY/JUN

E 2022

other was full of pipe fitters. His music was for the working class and about the working class.

Springsteen’s overarching message aligns directly with my reasoning for going into Social Security law. Sometimes people do everything right and work hard throughout their lives but are met with some illness or injury that makes it impossible for them to continue working. Most of us aren’t millionaires, and there’s a good percentage of the population that has no nest egg to fall back on. My calling in life is to find a way to help people who find themselves in positions they don’t deserve to be in. The clients I serve have not done anything wrong and don’t deserve shame or guilt. If I can find a way to help, I will. While Springsteen has helped me realize my purpose in life, he also helps me to stay strong. If I’m feeling down, I can turn on one of my favorite tracks, and before long, the positive feelings come flooding back. I’ll be sure to listen to “Youngstown” or another of my favorite tracks on World Music Day, and I hope you all can enjoy one of your favorite artists on that day, too.

When I was in high school, Bruce released a song called “Youngstown,” which was about my hometown. It wasn’t a huge radio hit but has developed a cult following over the years, and Bruce plays it at all of his concerts. It tells the story of the death and decay of the steel industry that was once so prevalent in Youngstown, Ohio. Youngstown was built up to be the pinnacle of the steel industry, and for years, it made its citizens wealthy and supported plenty of people, including my family. In 1980, they started to close the mills and moved them overseas, causing many people to move away. In the song, Bruce describes the entire timeline and how it impacted the people of Youngstown. They were left to fend and struggle for themselves when all they really wanted was a good day’s pay for a hard day’s work. I actually did my entire senior project in high school about the deeper meaning of the song. It says a lot about the type of people Bruce truly cares about.

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Hartwig Law Firm | (508) 732-8989

3 DREAMY TRAILS IN THE NORTHEAST Get Your Hiking Boots On!

No. 2: Stepstone Falls (Ben Utter Trail), Rhode Island If you’re in Rhode Island, especially in spring, you won’t want to miss this perfect trail. Follow this walk along a picturesque river and you’ll see fabulous slabs, cascades, woods, and much more. Unlike the popular — and often busy — White Mountain trails, this one is relatively quiet with its narrow foot path. It’s also a gentle walk, being mostly flat with some alternating gentle ups and downs. It’s a great walk for all ages. No. 3: Camel’s Hump Trail, Vermont As the third highest peak in the state, Camel’s Hump Trail offers unbeatable views in nearly every direction. It’s easy to reach the trailhead,

Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a lush dream? You don’t need to travel too far to experience truly stunning outdoor adventures. The U.S. has plenty within our borders! Here are just a few, located in our Northeast states. No. 1: White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire If you want to visit an enchanted forest, look no further than White Mountain National Forest! Whether you want to hike its various mountain ranges to spy some gorgeous views, wind through an endless sea of trees, or spot a plethora of unique local fauna and flora, this beautiful national park has a trail for everyone. You can even hike the Appalachian Trail to walk a mile in our American ancestors’ shoes.

as it’s just off Camel’s Hump Road with a small parking area for visitors. It’s very convenient, but make sure to arrive early in warmer months and on weekends — the road is not an option for parking. The trail offers stunning views of Vermont because of the high elevation, but it may be challenging if you’re afraid of heights. The last part of the trail is quite steep, but once you reach the peak, you’ll see an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can even see Canada! If you want to live out your outdoor dreams, these are excellent places to start! Give them a try!

THE 3 STAGES OF A SOCIAL SECURITY CASE

Applying for Social Security disability and having your claim rejected can be an incredibly stressful situation. If you’re preparing to apply and are worried about rejection, knowing the three primary stages of a Social Security case can help ease your mind and set expectations. The first stage of the process is the initial application. You can prepare and submit your application online at the Social Security Administration’s website or in person by visiting your local Social Security office. Oftentimes, people think they have filled out the application and are then surprised months later that they never fully submitted their claim. Thankfully, third parties like Social Security attorneys can help you gather the necessary information to help your claim get processed.

During this phase, Social Security will order your medical records based on the providers you list. They will review your application and then send you to a doctor they pick to identify your physical or mental impairments. These visits are often quick, but sometimes the doctor does a detailed examination. The initial phase usually takes 2–4 months and they’ll respond in writing. If the claim is denied at the initial phase, you’ll enter the request for reconsideration phase. Essentially, you are asking them to take a second look at your case. This phase can take up to six months to complete, but having an experienced attorney by your side will help keep you in the loop. We can contact Social Security to get an update or have them request new records or information.

If you are denied during the reconsideration phase, you will then enter stage three — the request for a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. Most people will wait 1–2 years between the time they request the hearing and the actual process. This is a difficult time because most people will struggle with finances if they have to wait over a year to have their case reevaluated. Judges who hear these cases are required to read every page of each person’s medical file, which can take a long time since they’ll need to make an informed decision. If you’re going through this process now or need help starting your application, give our office a call. We would be glad to help.

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Hartwig Law Firm | (508) 732-8989

MEET RAQUEL

Mini No-Bake Key Lime Pies

Inspired by FoodNetwork.com

With Hartwig Law Firm, you can expect to receive the best possible care to ensure your needs are met. We always go above and beyond for each and every client because we have a team of dedicated professionals who want nothing more than to give our clients the results they deserve. With our recent acquisition of Keefe Disability Law, we’ve added many wonderful members to our team. Raquel Montero is one of these additions and we couldn’t be happier to bring her aboard. Ever since Raquel was a child, she has been fascinated by the law. Interestingly enough, the movie “Legally Blonde” actually helped influence her to pursue a career in the legal field. When she graduated from school, she accepted a job with the Veteran’s Benefits Firm where she was able to combine her knowledge of the medical field with strong writing and customer service skills. She worked as a veterans’ affairs disability paralegal where she assisted veterans in obtaining disability benefits for their service-connected injuries and medical conditions. No matter the situation, Raquel always aimed to put a smile on her clients’ faces. While she is experienced in VA disability law, she has also made great strides in learning everything she can about Social Security disability law. Raquel enjoys making a positive difference in her clients’ lives more than anything else. She knows how difficult some situations can be, especially if her clients are dealing with physical conditions, financial troubles, or other stressors impeding their lives. Raquel finds no greater joy in her work than the opportunity to notify clients that their claim has been approved. MONTERO Helping Clients Get Results They Deserve

INGREDIENTS

• • •

1 cup lime juice

•

1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 1/3 cups sugar, divided 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened

•

1 1/2 cups whipping cream 1/2 cup powdered sugar Lime zest, for garnish

• •

14 eggs

• •

12 whole graham crackers

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine lime juice, 2 cups of sugar, and 2 sticks of butter. Cook until the butter melts. 2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a mixer and stir into lime juice mixture until combined. 3. Bring to a simmer. Stir constantly for 5–7 minutes until thick and creamy. Pour through a mesh strainer. 4. Chill lime curd for 2 hours in the refrigerator. 5. In a food processor, add graham crackers, 1/3 cup melted butter, and 1/3 cup sugar. Pulse to combine crumb mixture. 6. In a bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar until stiff for topping. 7. In 12 small dishes or ramekins, add the crumb mixture, followed by the lime curd. Add whipped topping and garnish with lime zest.

Answer on Page 4

Raquel is passionate about birds both inside and outside of the office. She’s always loved them, but the pandemic caused her to pick up bird-watching and bird photography where she discovered a newfound appreciation for them. She also loves spending time with her boyfriend of three years, going on walks, playing video games, and dabbling in different arts and crafts.

When you work with Raquel or anyone else at Hartwig Law Firm, they’re going to do everything in their power to get the results you need and deserve. You aren’t just a file or a stack of papers here — you matter to us!

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Hartwig Law Firm | (508) 732-8989

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

385 Court St., Suite 210 Plymouth, MA 02360 (508) 732-8989 www.HartwigLawFirm.com

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Learning Lessons From One of Music’s Best

SHARE YOUR STORY! Do you want to share a story about your disability claim, experience with Hartwig Law Firm, or just a funny story in general? Contact Andrea at (508) 732-8989 or via email at [email protected], and you could be featured in our next newsletter!

3 Dreamy Northeastern Hiking Trails

The 3 Stages of a Social Security Case

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Get to Know Raquel Montero

Mini No-Bake Key Lime Pies

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Father’s Day Gift Guide

It’s Dad’s Day! 6 GIFTS DAD

IS SURE TO LOVE

A New Cooler Men love their coolers — it’s a foolproof Father’s Day gift! Whether Dad loves to camp, fish, tailgate, go to the beach, or barbecue in the backyard, he’s sure to appreciate a new way to store ice, drinks, food, or bait!

Dad is a very important person in your life! Every year when Father’s Day rolls around, it can be tough to come up with the perfect gift, whether it be for your dad, a new father, your grandfather, or a father figure. Getting creative can be tricky, but this list is sure to help you with an idea or two for all different price ranges! Wallet Why not go really classic and opt for a thoughtful and practical gift? Most men’s wallets see a lot of wear and tear. After all, they’re sat on, toted around in pockets all day long, and sometimes forgotten about and sent through the wash. A new one just may be in order! Massage Gun Massage guns are rising in popularity. To help Dad recover from soreness and injury or just a tough workout, a massage gun will do the trick! The best part is that they range in price, and you can even purchase one on Amazon! Apple Watch Strap Does the dad you’re celebrating own an Apple Watch? If so, help him customize it with a new Apple Watch strap. You can choose from many materials, colors, and designs so he can blend in or stand out as much as he wants.

Tool Bucket Organizer Is your dad a bit of a handyman? Help him get organized and never lose track of his tools again. Tool bucket organizers come in many forms and, again, can be purchased right online, making your shopping easy! Bluetooth Headphones or Speakers If your father doesn’t have Bluetooth headphones or speakers yet, he’s missing out. The opportunity to jam out wirelessly while working out, cutting the grass, doing hobby work, or just relaxing is effortless with this thoughtful gift.

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Hartwig Law Firm | (508) 732-8989

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