Testimonials - What Our Clients Say About Us

As a Client of Jeff Goldberg Esq, he has been a Champion for the WTC Responder Community myself included.
Jeff has represented me to the fullest and he is an unwavering force in litigating and fighting for my rights with NYCERS. A true Winner !

- Gary Smiley, EMS, Retired

FDNY EMS Local 2507Uniformed EMTs, Paramedics & Fire Inspectors

WTC Liaison

FDNY Rescue Paramedic

Special Operations Command (ret)

Having known Jeffrey Goldberg for over 25 years, and having been represented by him for my own successful 3/4 disability pension, I can confidently state that he is a champion for your disability pension. He takes his time, sits with you, actively listens to your story, reviews your evidence, prepares the documentation with the disability package to present your case. He is with you during your medical exam, and will fight for you every step of the way. His experience and intimate knowledge of the NYC pension system will give you peace and confidence since this has been his life’s work. Jeff is dedicated to making sure your rights are protected so you are protected. Jeff is methodical, thorough, and dedicated to his clients. He is well familiar with the obstacles NYCERS can throw in your way, and is extremely well versed at helping you navigate them. His experience with NYCERS, and creativity in dealing with their objections and denials makes him the best lawyer for your disability pension. You can trust him and his firm to have your back, they are reliable and have a genuine concern for you. I have seen this first hand not only in my own case but on the many occasions in which Jeff answered questions I asked on behalf of other EMS members who were not able to hire an attorney on their own. That, and their successful track record should give you peace of mind.

- Marianne Pizzitola, EMS, Retired

President, FDNY EMS Retirees Association

As a former NYPD officer who's gone through the 3/4 disability pension application process, I can say from personal experience that undergoing a Medical Board examination (part of that process) can be a horrible and nerve-wracking experience - even for applicants with really strong medical evidence in their favor. Having heard from others on the job, before my first Medical Board exam, that it would be a good idea to talk with a pension lawyer first, because everything rides on the opinion of those three doctors, I did some research on lawyers in that field and found that one lawyer in particular, Jeffrey Goldberg, had an excellent reputation and had handled more pension cases than any of the others I had researched. Luckily, I was able to get an appointment with Mr. Goldberg before my Medical Board exam. When we met at his office Mr. Goldberg took the time to talk with me, asked me a lot of questions that made it clear he knew the NYPD application process like the back of his hand, and he read all of my medical records. By the time we finished going through everything he actually told me that, given the conditions I was diagnosed with, I really didn't need a lawyer - that I shouldn't have any problem getting my three quarters. This really impressed me, as there was no way I could have known this, and I felt that many other attorneys would have just taken my case anyway just to get paid, knowing that I would have been approved without their "help." Despite how strong my case was though, the three doctors I was examined by were arrogant and nasty, asking me questions that felt like accusations and which weren't even remotely related to my line of duty injury, some of which were very personal. I left there horrified, as I could tell from their attitudes that I was definitely going to be denied, and called Mr. Goldberg right after I left. He was outraged at the treatment I had received, confirmed that I would likely be in for a battle now given what I had described, and, to my relief, said he would now gladly take my case. Thank God he did. My union representation was completely uninterested in helping me and useless throughout the whole process, which did turn into an enormous battle. Mr. Goldberg guided me and fought for me continuously, even though I had to go through another six Medical Board examinations (!) before I was finally approved. His tenacity and professionalism were unbelievably outstanding but there's more to it than that. Mr. Goldberg really cares about his clients and doesn't give up till they get what they are entitled to!

- JPS (NYPD, retired)

Thank you to your entire team at Jeffrey Goldberg's firm for your incredible support. Thank you Jeff, for not only being my lawyer but my counselor and friend throughout this entire process. You believed in my case despite my situation, pulled together to give me a winning plan and strategy, and your attention to detail and diligence in pushing my case forward and relentlessly fighting for me are what made the award of my 3/4 disability pension possible.

- Kendra Herrera, P.O., NYPD, Retired

As a Correction Officer wounded multiple times in violent inmate incidents which ultimately led to my having to undergo a multi-level spinal fusion, I thought my disability pension application would be granted the first time I submitted it. I was about as wrong as I’ve ever been. It was denied the first time, and then denied every time I renewed it, despite my changing “pension” attorneys several times, and having to return to NYCERS for numerous Medical Board Exams. One of my old attorneys even tried to tell me the repeated denials I got weren’t his fault because my case was “unwinnable.” Then I found Jeff Goldberg's firm. They moved mountains for me, LISTENED to me, invited me to spend time in their office and answered every single phone call I made to them (in the office and on their cell phones) and discussed my case with me for as long as it took to understand everything that had been done wrong before I handed my virtually dead case to them. And then they did some legal CPR on it, worked day and night to meet my court deadline, and brought it back to life. They did such a beautiful job on my Article 78 that the judge granted me my benefits as a matter of law, right after oral argument. A bench decision. I couldn’t believe it at first. Bottom line: Don’t bargain hunt and don’t use your workers comp attorney for your application or Article 78. There’s way too much at stake. Trust this firm to do right by you and to give you the absolute best chance possible to get your ¾ pension. So glad I did.

- Scott Singleton, CO, Retired

I wanted to take a moment to thank you guys for what you have done for me and my family. I can’t believe it’s been almost 6 years since we first started my 3/4 Heart Bill case. Having you guys on my side kept me going. I don’t know how many emails and phone calls we had but those moments, and reading the legal briefs you drafted for me, kept me thinking positive and knowing how hard you guys were pushing for me. I knew we would prevail. I hope when things get back to normal we can all go out and have a nice meal to celebrate. You guys will always have a special place in the O’Connor family. If you ever need anything don’t hesitate to ask.

Thank you very much!!!

Your friend,

- Mike O’Connor, Sgt., NYPD, Retired

When I met Mr. Jeffrey Goldberg, I was going through a challenging time in my life. I was at a point where my situation was viewed as ‘the impossible.’ I was referred to Mr. Goldberg by a supervisor/friend who knew I was having problems with my disability pension. After my first meeting with Mr. Goldberg in his office, I left feeling more confident and knowledgeable about my situation. Everything that he told me, happened exactly as he said it would - which showed me that he was very knowledgeable about NYPD pension system, the NYPD culture and politics and even the specific NYPD department that I worked for. Whenever I speak of the process that I went through to retire, I always mention Mr. Goldberg. He was there for me during a time that I felt like I was against the world. I get very emotional just thinking about it. My children were young, and I was a single parent. He is a very honest, honorable, caring, and compassionate person. He helped me and I am beyond grateful. And when I think of Mr. Goldberg, I remember how he made me feel; confident and secure. Anyone who hires him will get that feeling too. He is thorough, and displays years of experience, and will get the job done.

- K.G., P.O., NYPD, Retired

It was really tough dealing with my injuries while trying to get through the disability pension process. Treatment authorizations denied then authorized, locked in my house between treatments, absence control visits to my door and sitting in front of my house and threats from district surgeons about putting me back on the street full duty. Jeff changed all that. As soon as they sent in documents for me letting the job know they were on my case EVERYTHING changed. Denied three times before I hired them then awarded three quarters in under 6 months. Jeff took my calls and answered my texts for months and they’d call me whenever anything happened, sometimes with both on the line at the same time. You get the whole firm working for you when you hire them. They changed my life forever and acted like it was no big deal. Well it was huge for me. Eternally grateful and friend for life.

- Paul M. (Sgt., NYPD, Retired)

To everyone at Jeffrey Goldberg's firm,
We will never be able to thank you enough for what you’ve done for us. Your devotion, hard work and creativity are what put us over the top and we will always be in your debt. I know in my heart that Sean is looking down on us now and smiling that we kept on fighting until we won. If you ever need anything at all you know who to call.

- The H’s (DSNY widow, and family)

Best disability pension lawyers in the known universe. Not kidding. Won my case AND my partner’s case (for completely different conditions) when everyone we knew, and some of the people at Lefrak, told us we had no chance of getting through. Jeff is true gentlemen and consummate professional. You can’t do better (in this universe).

- Mike P. (Sgt., NYPD, Retired)

I never thought my heart bill case stood a chance until I saw Jeff Goldberg Sat down with me and drilled into my records, pointing out what was good and what was a problem, then how to deal with the problems and show the medical board that I really was entitled to 3/4’s even though I had been denied twice by them already. And it worked! Head and shoulders above anyone else I spoke to before sitting with them. When they called me to tell me I was approved for 3/4’s I think they were as excited as I was - told me their favorite thing in the world to do was making these calls.

- Carl B. (Firefighter, FDNY, Retired)

I was referred to Jeff Goldberg by a co-worker on my truck. Got me approved after several people, including my !$^#* union rep, said my case wasn’t a “good 3/4 case” and that I “should go back to full duty and get another injury, then try again.” Jeff strongly disagreed, and he was right. The best.

- David J, Det., ESU, Retired

Can’t thank you fine folks enough for winning my case. After my last denial I didn’t think even God could get me approved. But He showed me. He sent me to you, and, apparently, He knows his stuff. ;)

- Michael M. (PO, NYPD, Retired)

My only other lawyer experience before this firm was with a family court lawyer I would never recommend to anyone. This was like a negative of that experience, the complete opposite. If you have a 3/4 pension case this is the firm you want to go with. Ask around like I did and you’ll see what I mean. They don’t have unhappy former clients. Once I started telling people at work who I had hired for my case, they started telling me about people they knew who had won with them, and not just a few, which made me feel good after laying out the money to hire them as I’m not made of money and I hated my last lawyer. Best move I ever made. You can tell these guys love what they do and they are incredible at it. Super creative and thoughtful with dacades of doing only 3/4 pension cases. No way any other attorney’s know more about winning pension cases or could do better than them. I strongly recommend this firm.

- Joseph P. (Det., NYPD, Retired)

It has been a pleasure working with you and your staff. Everyone is and has been exceptional. Words can't say how appreciative I am. Thank you!

- Reginald H. (PO, NYPD, Retired)

Great pension law firm. So glad I found them. Don’t hesitate to hire them. They tell you what your union reps don’t know and prepare you for everything you will be facing in advance. Their legal advice is sound as Fort Knox. They are forthright and professional. They won my case when my union guy (who is a personal friend of mine) said there was “no way in hell” I would ever get approved for 3/4’s. He just hired them too, LOL.

- Mike P. (Lt., NYPD, Retired)

I cannot express my sincerest appreciation for winning my 3/4 case. After numerous injuries, surgeries, and light-duty assignments, I began the long and arduous process of being boarded. Believing that my case was clearly cut and dry, I presented my documents and detailed health history to the board. Weeks later, I was devastated to find out I was denied. Three years of this tedious process had already passed. Colleagues and other department staff told me I probably would never win my case. I started feeling defeated, unheard, and others were unresponsive to my situation. It was then that a fellow firefighter recommended Jeff Goldberg. I quickly scheduled a consultation. I was highly impressed with their honesty and professionalism. They listened to my whole story and medical history and felt confident that I had a strong case that they could win. I immediately hired them and felt that I was in good hands. They communicated well, returned my calls, and completed all the necessary paperwork. They won my case within nine months, and I received my 9/11 3/4 pension. I will forever be grateful for your help, which has been life-changing. Thank you!

- Vinny D. (Firefighter, FDNY, Retired)

Thank you so much for validating my sacrifice and service to my city. It truly has helped to heal my heart.

Forever grateful,

Yvette Montalvo.

P.S.: It cannot be overstated how important Julie was in helping me stay focused and on task, to get the desired outcome. God bless all of you!!

- Yvette Montalvo (EMS, FDNY, Retired)

I couldn’t have had a better team fighting for me through the long frustrating process of 3/4. I found myself at times losing hope and thinking approval is not in the cards for me. But Jeff kept me fighting and never let me give up even when I got denied the first time before the medical board. When the city medical board came at me hard Jeff made my case even stronger finding new strategies to make the medical board see the true validity of my case. didn’t feel like a client I felt he really cared about me as well as my success in getting my 3/4. I was recommended to the Goldberg firm by a friend of mine who they helped years ago, and I couldn’t be happier with the choice I made it was definitely the right choice.

- John C. (Sgt. NYPD, Retired)

Due to my LOD injury, I was diagnosed with a painful and crippling autoimmune illness that required

numerous doctors and treatments. Jeff helped me from the start by explaining the whole

process and what to expect. They even helped me with the first step of filling out my application.

They took care of the run a round from the medical division, pension board and the Department, so I

can focus on my health and medical treatment. They consistently checked in with me to make sure I was

updated and ok. After all the back and forth with the medical division and pension board I was

approved for the three-quarter disability pension. Jeff and to the rest of the staff, me my wife

and family can’t express how much gratitude we have for all the hard work your law firm did for us during this difficult time. Still in shock that you guys were able to get my 3/4 approved without a court room. I tell everyone I know to go to you guys first when considering disability retirement. Thanks so much my life and health have gotten so much better thanks to your law firm.

- Danny Cawthorne (Sgt., NYPD, Retired)

Growing up I always heard that death, divorce and buying a home where the three most stressful events in your life. For me, a late 30s firefighter In NYC, It was getting the ¾ disability pension that I was rightfully entitled to. I never thought for one moment that if I risked my life, or my health, I would be roadblocked from receiving the 3/4 disability benefits I was promised, should I get a disabling injury on the job, when I took the oath of office of a NYC Firefighter. But that was the case.You would think that your union would protect you, and give you guidance that mattered, but like most unions, It’s just a lot of lies, hot air, and broken promises. In most cases unions are nothing more then a group of individuals who virtue signal, to increase the size of their waist lines and their pockets. I know this first-hand, because I once called them friends. Knowing the intricacies of the union dynamic, I knew that the only person I could go to was an Attorney. Most attorneys are no better than the union that represents you. I visited 3 pension attorney offices to feel out who to hire, for the most Important decision in my life. From the moment I met Jeff, I knew I was in good hands. He didn’t promise me the world but told me they would do everything they possibly could to win my case. They gave me examples of similar cases they’d had before mine, and answered all my questions, and the experience and track record of that office was far beyond that of any of the other attorneys I met with. Throughout the case I was updated by their well trained and gracious paralegals and Jeff answered all my questions, and always told me what to expect. At no point did I feel like I was wasting money on someone who couldn’t deliver. And they tell it to you straight. If you don’t have a case they tell you. I actually know people they have turned away! The road through Article 78 court to win your pension isn’t an easy one, but when you have good attorneys who know what they are doing, It makes the ride less bumpy. They won my case 2 years from retirement almost to the day, but the fun didn’t stop there. After they won my case and my 3/4 benefits should have started, nothing happened. Jeff had to write a letter on my behalf to get the FDNY to put my name in the “department orders” to get things moving and to actually get the 3/4 payments started. Some may think that this was just a rare oversight, but if I told you all the other egregious, even malicious errors and omissions that occurred in my case, especially by the 1B Medical Board and pension trustees, you’d come realize too that the same gutless freeloaders we elected to protect our pensions really aren’t, at all, and that they may actually be doing more harm than good. For me, though, it makes the win all that much sweeter! I owe Jeff a debt of gratitude that no amount of money could pay! Anyone who thinks they’ve received the wrong disability award for their injuries in service should immediately contact Jeff. They changed my life. They could possibly change yours!

- Michael Charles Clancy Ret. L152 FDNY

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Please leave your own testimonial about your experience with Goldberg. It can be as long or as short as you want and you can even upload a photograph, if you'd like, to go with it (in uniform from back in the day, or in a Hawaiian shirt from yesterday). We always like to see and hear from our former clients and find out how they're enjoying their retirements, so tell us how you're doing and let's see that trophy fish you just caught, or the classic car you finally found the time to finish.

Disclaimer for Testimonials

The testimonials reprinted on the pages of our website were offered to us by our clients without payment and are in no way indicative of the future performance of our firm in subsequent matters for new clients or of a likelihood of success in those matters. Each client and case we handle are unique. As such, any favorable comments reprinted above are applicable to the individual clients to whom they are attributed alone and are not necessarily representative of the experience of other clients.

Given the inherently unpredictable nature of civil service disability pension applications, and the equally unpredictable nature of litigation in general, Goldberg cannot, and does not, guarantee the outcomes of cases under any circumstances.

The client testimonials reprinted above are unedited, apart from the omission of personal details for any clients who have requested that their identities not be disclosed to the public or changes requested by the clients themselves.

Use of this website constitutes an acknowledgment that Goldberg Pensions, LLC offers disability pension legal services without any assurance that any particular outcome will be achieved.

None of the disability pension attorneys listed in this website have been certified as "experts" or "specialists" by to any federal, state or local authority governing the practice of law in New York State.

Testimonials - What Our Clients Say About Us

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