Business Details
Trusted Social Security Disability Lawyers in Dayton, Ohio
Donoff & Lutz is a boutique law firm dedicated to representing individuals in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. With nearly five decades of combined experience, our team has handled cases from initial applications through federal court litigation, serving clients nationwide while maintaining deep roots in Dayton, Ohio. Our attorneys, including Harvard Law School graduates and former federal judicial clerks, specialize in complex disability cases involving diverse claimants such as veterans, former professionals, and vulnerable populations.We prioritize client-centered representation, offering free consultations and operating on a contingency fee basis to ensure accessibility. Our national reputation has led to referrals from other legal professionals and multi-generational client relationships, reflecting our commitment to excellence in disability advocacy.
Services
SSDI Claims
SSI Applications
Federal Court Appeals
Continuing Disability Reviews
Legal Consultation
Highlights and features
- We have nearly 50 years of combined experience in Social Security disability claims.
- Our attorneys graduated with honors from Harvard Law School and clerked for federal judges.
- We handle complex cases nationwide, including federal court litigation.
- We offer free consultations and work on contingency with no upfront fees.
- Our team maintains deep relationships with Ohio-based medical professionals and legal experts.
Associations and certifications
- Supreme Court of the United States
- Supreme Court of Ohio
- Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals
- Southern District of Ohio
- D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals
- District of Columbia District Court
- National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR)
- National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR)
- Advocates, Counselors & Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD)
- Cincinnati Bar Association
- Dayton Bar Association
What people say
Great s.s lawyer
Compassion for my situation
Knowledgeable staff
Respect and dignity
Amazing with disability claims
Services
SSDI Claims
We represent clients in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims from initial applications through federal court litigation. Our team specializes in complex cases involving medical documentation, vocational analysis, and legal precedent. With decades of experience, we help clients navigate the appeals process when initial claims are denied.
SSI Applications
Our firm assists clients with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applications requiring detailed financial documentation and medical evidence. We guide clients through eligibility requirements and represent them at hearings when claims face administrative challenges. Our approach emphasizes timely submission and comprehensive case preparation.
Federal Court Appeals
We handle federal court appeals for disability claims that remain unresolved after administrative hearings. Our attorneys leverage extensive knowledge of judicial procedures and case law to present compelling arguments before federal judges. This service includes preparing appellate briefs and representing clients during oral arguments.
Continuing Disability Reviews
Our team manages Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to ensure ongoing benefit eligibility. We help clients respond to Social Security Administration requests for updated medical information and represent them if termination notices are issued. This service includes document preparation and hearing representation.
Legal Consultation
We offer free initial consultations to evaluate disability claims and recommend strategic approaches. Our attorneys assess medical documentation, work history, and eligibility factors to determine case viability. This service includes guidance on evidence collection and procedural timelines.
People
Marilyn R. Donoff
Attorney
Harvard Law School graduate with decades of experience in disability law. Specializes in complex SSDI/SSI cases and federal court litigation. Recognized for compassionate client representation and successful outcomes in challenging claims.
Rebecca R. Fate
Attorney
Skilled disability law practitioner with expertise in appellate advocacy and medical-vocational analysis. Provides personalized guidance through all stages of the disability claims process while maintaining strong client communication.
Zachary P. Lutz
Attorney
Federal court litigator with experience handling high-complexity disability cases. Focuses on strategic case development and courtroom advocacy, leveraging clerkship experience with federal judges to benefit client representation.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialize in?
We exclusively practice Social Security Disability law, handling SSDI and SSI claims at all stages including federal court litigation.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations to evaluate your disability claim and discuss potential legal strategies.
How are your legal fees structured?
We work on contingency basis - no upfront fees. Our payment comes from a percentage of retroactive benefits if we win your case.
Can you help with denied disability claims?
Yes, we specialize in appeals and hearings for denied SSDI/SSI claims, with extensive experience overturning unfavorable decisions.
Do you serve clients outside Ohio?
Yes, while based in Dayton, we represent clients nationwide in Social Security disability cases at all administrative and judicial levels.
Reviews (6)
Melody Vallieu
Nov 02, 2021
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Marilyn and her staff were professional and responsive to all my questions. I won my case in record time and they believed in me and guided me through every aspect.
Tracie L. Franklin
Jul 02, 2021
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These ladies are a treat. Fast n efficient as well as caring n fun. I highly recommend Marilyn Donoff for your Soc Sec matters
Charlotte Staugler
Sep 11, 2020
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She's a great s.s lawyer. So far I recommend her to 4 other people and she got all of there s.s for them
Kim Dillion
Dec 13, 2019
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Marilyn Dunoff is a brilliant caring attorney and I never would have won my case had it not been for her. Even the judge said she prepared my file very well!! She is personable yet professional and will fight for you. I would recommend her to anyone and I am not sure where these other bad reviews are coming from. Her and her staff are always there to answer questions. Hire her and you won't be sorry!
Jerimie Piccola
Nov 22, 2019
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She is doing a wonderful job so far dealing with my case and my wife's *will update once the case is finished*
April Bogard
Jun 08, 2017
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This attorney is just looking for the easy cases so they can take advantage of the low income and people with disabilities. They will not fight for you. You are much better off doing it yourself!
