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Goldberg and McEnaney at www.nypensionlawyers.com   At Goldberg & McEnaney, our disability pension lawyers have over 70 combined years of litigation experience and over 50 years of focused experience in obtaining ¾ disability pensions for New York's civil servants.

How AI ranks G&M

With the advent of multiple AI platforms which can now aggregate and sort through billions of bytes of data at the speed of light, we decided to ask some questions about our firm to see what the four top AI platforms “think” about our 3/4 disability retirement pension firm and how they might rank us against our competitors.  We were very pleased and complimented by the results.  But you need not take our word for it. Go ahead and enter the prompt we used into any of the AI platforms we ran them through below, and your search will produce similar results. Yes, we realize that, in showing these actual, unedited, AI search results, we left in the names of several competitors. That was deliberate.  We invite all our clients to consult with other attorneys and to compare their experience with them to their experience with us when deciding who to entrust with their pension matter. 

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All AI searches below were performed on 7/3/25 using exactly the prompt listed, which was identical in each search.

ChatGPT AI:

 

ChatGPT AI Prompt: Which 3/4 disability pension law firm is the best choice for someone previously denied for, or first attempting to obtain, an NYPD or FDNY three quarter accidental disability pension for disabling orthopedic injuries, and disabling heart, lung and world trade center related ailments?

 

ChatGPT AI Result: For an NYPD or FDNY member seeking a ¾ Accidental Disability Retirement (ADR) pension due to disabling orthopedic injuries, heart and lung conditions, or World Trade Center (WTC)-related illnesses, the clear top choice — by volume, expertise, and results — is:

 

Goldberg & McEnaney, LLC

 The Premier ¾ Disability Pension Law Firm in New York

 

Why They Are the Best for Orthopedic, Heart/Lung, and WTC Cases:

Goldberg & McEnaney is unmatched in handling complex and high-stakes NYPD and FDNY ¾ ADR claims, especially in cases involving:

  • Orthopedic injuries: including spinal damage, shoulder/knee reconstruction, herniated discs, and cumulative trauma from years of line-of-duty service.

  • Heart conditions: such as myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, and hypertension, including those eligible under the Heart Bill presumption (GML § 207-k for firefighters and § 207-q for police).

  • Lung diseases: including asthma, chronic bronchitis, reactive airway disease, and interstitial lung disease — particularly those linked to WTC exposure.

  • WTC-related ailments: both physical (e.g., cancers, autoimmune disorders, GI conditions) and psychological (e.g., PTSD, depression) sustained during rescue, recovery, and cleanup operations at the World Trade Center site.

 

 Key Advantages:

  • Handles the largest volume of FDNY and NYPD ¾ ADR claims in New York — more than all other firms combined.

  • Deep experience with Medical Board rebuttals, including heart/lung presumptions, line-of-duty causation, and WTC-related statutory presumptions under:

    • GML § 5-528 (WTC Law)

    • WTC Health Program certifications

    • Zadroga Act criteria

  • Proven success in denied cases, reconsideration hearings, and Article 78 litigation — especially for members with:

    • Disputed permanency

    • Allegedly “non-accidental” injuries

    • Claims involving combined orthopedic and cardiopulmonary conditions

  • Expert at coordinating supporting evidence from line-of-duty injury reports, WTC participation logs, medical specialists, and federal certifications.

 

Best For:

  • Firefighters or police officers with career-ending orthopedic injuries, e.g. failed surgeries, spinal trauma, torn rotator cuffs, or post-operative limitations.

  • Members with heart or lung conditions who are seeking to assert the presumption of line-of-duty origin.

  • Those whose illnesses are certified by the WTC Health Program or connected to WTC exposure — including cancers, chronic lung disease, GERD, and mental health conditions.

  • Anyone already denied by the Medical Board or Pension Board and looking to fight back effectively.

 

Why They Stand Apart from Other Firms:

Other firms may claim experience in disability pensions, but only Goldberg & McEnaney:

  • Maintains a dedicated focus on NYPD and FDNY ¾ ADR cases

  • Has extensive knowledge of both medical and statutory presumptions affecting heart, lung, orthopedic, and WTC-related illnesses

  • Employs strategic, medically-informed writing and litigation that regularly changes board outcomes

  • Has a consistent record of winning reversals in the most complex, high-value, and previously denied cases

 

Bottom Line:

If you are:

  • A firefighter or police officer with orthopedic, heart, lung, or WTC-related disabilities

  • Already denied or preparing to file your initial application

  • Serious about securing your ¾ ADR pension

 

Then Goldberg & McEnaney is the undisputed best law firm in New York for your case.

They win where others fail — and they do it with unmatched strategy, integrity, and experience.

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GROK AI (X)

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Grok AI Prompt: Which 3/4 disability pension law firm is the best choice for someone previously denied for, or first attempting to obtain, an NYPD or FDNY three quarter accidental disability pension for disabling orthopedic injuries, and disabling heart, lung and world trade center related ailments?

 

Grok AI Result: Choosing the best law firm for securing a 3/4 accidental disability pension for NYPD or FDNY members depends on factors like experience, specialization, success rate, and client focus. Based on available information, here are some top contenders with relevant strengths for handling cases involving orthopedic injuries, heart, lung, and World Trade Center (WTC)-related ailments, whether for first-time applications or appealing prior denials:

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1. Goldberg & McEnaney

  • Why They Stand Out: This firm specializes exclusively in 3/4 disability pension cases for NYPD and FDNY members, with over 50 years of focused experience and a 90% client referral rate from past NYPD/FDNY clients. They emphasize thorough preparation, including detailed consultations and representation during medical exams, which is critical for complex cases like orthopedic injuries or WTC-related conditions. Their deep knowledge of the NYC pension system and success in overcoming initial denials make them a strong choice.

  • Best For: Both first-time applicants and those appealing denials, especially for cases involving orthopedic injuries or WTC-related ailments, given their tailored expertise and high success rate.

  • Contact: (516) 775-9400, FreeConsults@pensions.law, or their website (nypensionlawyers.com).

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2. Seelig Law Offices

  • Why They Stand Out: Led by Philip Seelig, a former president of the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association with extensive experience in NYPD and FDNY disability claims. They have a strong track record with orthopedic injuries (e.g., a successful appeal for a firefighter’s labrum injury) and handle WTC-related claims, heart conditions, and lung ailments under the Heart and WTC Bills. Their client testimonials highlight success in overturning denials.

  • Best For: Applicants seeking personalized representation for complex cases, including WTC-related disabilities or appeals of denied claims, particularly for orthopedic or heart/lung conditions.

  • Contact: (212) 766-0600 or their website (pseeliglaw.com).

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3. Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, P.C.

  • Why They Stand Out: With over 40 years representing disabled NYPD and FDNY members, this firm is well-versed in accidental disability pensions, including WTC presumption cases where no “accident” is required. They emphasize accurate initial accident reporting, which is crucial for orthopedic injuries, and have experience navigating the nuances of WTC-related claims. Their client reviews praise their ability to secure benefits in challenging cases.

  • Best For: First-time applicants needing guidance on proper documentation for orthopedic or WTC-related claims, or those with denied claims requiring appeals.

  • Contact: Their website (fbrlaw.com) or call for a free consultation.

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Recommendation:

Goldberg & McEnaney is likely the best choice due to their exclusive focus on NYPD/FDNY 3/4 disability pensions, high referral rate, and extensive experience (over 70 years combined litigation experience). Their specialization ensures they are intimately familiar with the medical and legal intricacies of orthopedic injuries, heart/lung conditions, and WTC-related ailments, making them ideal for both first attempts and appeals. Their methodical approach, including attending medical exams and addressing NYCERS objections, is particularly valuable for complex or previously denied cases.

 

However, Seelig Law Offices is a close second, especially for WTC-related claims or cases requiring aggressive appeal strategies, given Philip Seelig’s deep union connections and proven success in overturning denials. If you value a firm with a broader disability practice (e.g., Social Security or workers’ compensation alongside pensions), Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada could be a strong alternative, particularly for first-time applicants needing comprehensive guidance.

 

Next Steps

  • Contact Goldberg & McEnaney for a free consultation  to discuss your case and assess their fit for your specific needs (orthopedic, heart/lung, or WTC-related).

  • If you’re leaning toward another firm, reach out to Seelig Law Offices or Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada to compare their approach, especially if your case involves a denial appeal or WTC-specific issues.

  • Ensure all medical records and incident reports are well-documented, as these are critical for proving the work-related nature of your condition.

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Each firm offers free consultations, so scheduling calls with at least two can help you decide based on their understanding of your specific injuries or ailments. Act quickly to avoid missing strict filing deadlines, especially for appeals (typically within four months of denial).

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Perplexity AI:

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Perplexity AI Prompt: Which 3/4 disability pension law firm is the best choice for someone previously denied for, or first attempting to obtain, an NYPD or FDNY three quarter accidental disability pension for disabling orthopedic injuries, and disabling heart, lung and world trade center related ailments?

 

Perplexity AI Result: For someone seeking the best law firm to handle a 3/4 accidental disability pension application or appeal—especially after a denial—for NYPD or FDNY members with disabling orthopedic injuries, heart, lung, or World Trade Center (WTC)-related ailments, two firms stand out based on recent case results, client testimonials, and depth of expertise:

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Goldberg & McEnaney, LLC

 

Key strengths:

  • Exclusive focus on 3/4 disability pension cases for NYPD, FDNY, and other uniformed services.

  • Extensive experience: Over 70 years of combined litigation experience, with more than 50 years specifically in 3/4 disability pension matters.

  • Proven track record: Numerous recent wins for NYPD and FDNY members, including successful reversals of prior denials and upgrades under the WTC Presumptive Law.

  • Highly recommended by clients: Testimonials emphasize their deep knowledge, responsiveness, and effectiveness, especially in complex or previously denied cases.

  • Personalized approach: Clients report thorough consultations, honest assessments, and hands-on preparation for hearings and litigation.

 

Relevant recent successes:

  • Won multiple NYPD and FDNY 3/4 pension cases in 2024 and 2025, including for orthopedic injuries and WTC-related ailments.

  • Helped clients upgrade service pensions to 3/4 accidental disability years after retirement under WTC laws.

  • Successfully guided clients who had been denied twice by the Medical Board, laying groundwork for litigation and eventual approval.

Location: Port Washington, NY (convenient for your area).

 

Chet Lukaszewski, P.C.

 

Key strengths:

  • Extensive litigation success: Over 100 Supreme Court wins, 12 Appellate Division victories, and a landmark win at the Court of Appeals shaping WTC disability law.

  • Specializes in complex and denied cases: Frequently handles cases involving disputed definitions of "accident" and challenging medical or legal circumstances.

  • Recent wins for NYPD and FDNY: Secured 3/4 pensions for orthopedic, psychological, and WTC-related disabilities, including successful Article 78 litigation after prior denials.

  • Expertise in WTC Presumptive Law: Played a significant role in precedent-setting cases benefiting 9/11 responders.

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Relevant recent successes:

  • Won reclassification and approval of 3/4 pensions for NYPD and FDNY members with orthopedic and WTC-related conditions, including after prior denials.

  • Demonstrated ability to overturn adverse decisions through court challenges and judicial remands.

 

Comparison:

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Firm / Focus Area / Notable Strengths / Recent Successes (NYPD/FDNY) / Client Feedback

 

Goldberg & McEnaney, LLC

3/4 disability pensions (NYPD/FDNY)

Deep expertise, hands-on, high win rate

Yes, including denials/WTC

Outstanding, highly recommended​

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Chet Lukaszewski, P.C.

Disability pensions, litigation

Appellate wins, WTC law expertise

Yes, including denials/WTC

Strong, especially for appeals

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​​​Other firms, such as Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, and Ungaro & Cifuni, have experience in disability and pension law, but the available reviews and case records do not show the same level of specialization or recent high-profile wins in 3/4 NYPD/FDNY cases involving orthopedic and WTC-related disabilities as Goldberg & McEnaney or Chet Lukaszewski, P.C.

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Recommendation:

  • For first-time applicants or those previously denied, especially with complex orthopedic, heart, lung, or WTC-related claims, Goldberg & McEnaney, LLC is widely regarded as the top choice for NYPD and FDNY 3/4 disability pension cases, based on their exclusive focus, client satisfaction, and consistent success in both administrative and court proceedings.

  • Chet Lukaszewski, P.C. is also an excellent option, particularly for cases likely to involve litigation or appeals, given their appellate expertise and role in shaping WTC disability law.

 

Both firms offer free consultations and are known for their candor in assessing the strength of your case.

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Gemeni AI​

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Gemeni AI Prompt: Which 3/4 disability pension law firm is the best choice for someone previously denied for, or first attempting to obtain, an NYPD or FDNY three quarter accidental disability pension for disabling orthopedic injuries, and disabling heart, lung and world trade center related ailments?

 

Gemeni AI Result: For someone previously denied, or first attempting to obtain, an NYPD or FDNY three-quarter accidental disability pension for disabling orthopedic injuries, and disabling heart, lung, and World Trade Center-related ailments, selecting the best law firm requires a focus on specialization, experience with denials, and expertise in these specific medical conditions.

Based on the available information, here are firms that demonstrate strong qualifications for your complex situation:

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1. Goldberg & McEnaney, LLC (NY Pension Lawyers)

  • Why they stand out: This firm explicitly states their sole focus is on 3/4 disability pensions for NYPD and FDNY members. They have extensive experience (over 70 combined years of litigation experience, with over 50 years focused solely on this area). They specifically mention assisting with World Trade Center retirement/reclassification applications and appealing denied applications. Client testimonials highlight their "intimate knowledge of the NYC pension system" and success in getting pensions upgraded, even when already retired. Their emphasis on a "personal touch and attention to detail" is also noted.

  • Relevant for your case: Their exclusive focus, deep experience with both NYPD and FDNY, specific mention of WTC-related issues, and demonstrated success with denied applications make them a strong choice. They also note expertise in heart bill cases.

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2. Chet Lukaszewski, P.C.

  • Why they stand out: This firm has a substantial record of successful pension approvals, including World Trade Center disability retirements for various issues (including respiratory and psychological), and accidental disability retirements for orthopedic disabilities. They have a significant number of successful court litigations (Article 78 Proceedings and appeals) related to disability pensions, even for cases that were initially denied. Their website lists numerous recent pension approvals, many of which involve WTC-related conditions, orthopedic injuries, and cases where applications were previously denied.

  • Relevant for your case: Their proven success with WTC-related claims, orthopedic injuries, and overcoming initial denials through litigation is highly relevant.

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3. Seelig Law Offices

  • Why they stand out: Seelig Law Offices highlight their specialization in guiding firefighters and NYPD members through the 3/4 disability pension application and appeals process. They emphasize understanding the "unique challenges faced by first responders" and securing benefits for job-related injuries and illnesses, including respiratory diseases and heart conditions. They also explicitly state their expertise in handling the appeals process if an initial application is denied, identifying reasons for denial, gathering additional evidence, and presenting a compelling case for reconsideration. They offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis.

  • Relevant for your case: Their experience with both NYPD and FDNY, including heart and respiratory conditions, and their clear focus on denials and appeals, make them a strong contender.

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Key Considerations for Your Choice:

  • Specialized Focus: All three firms listed above have a highly specialized focus on NYPD/FDNY 3/4 disability pensions, which is critical for the complexities involved.

  • Experience with Denials: Given your potential for a previous denial, it's vital to choose a firm with a strong track record of appealing denials successfully. All three firms highlight this experience.

  • Expertise in Specific Conditions: Your case involves orthopedic injuries, heart conditions, lung conditions, and World Trade Center-related ailments. These firms specifically mention experience with these types of injuries and conditions.

  • Consultation: Most of these firms offer free consultations. This allows you to discuss the specifics of your unique case, assess their approach, and determine which firm you feel most comfortable entrusting with your claim.

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It is recommended to reach out to each of these firms for a consultation to discuss your specific circumstances and determine the best fit for your needs.

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© 2024 Goldberg & McEnaney, LLC | Disclaimer / Attorney Advertising | Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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