I have worked with many attorneys over the years while working in the law enforcement field. Gustad Law Group is one firm that stands out in a good way. I was treated fairly, respectfully and skillfully from everyone I encountered with a big thanks to Judith Delao and John Gustad. All my concerns and questions were addressed and answered entirely. I found these professionals to be extremely helpful and caring when it mattered. When I finally did get to see a judge years after BVA appeal was filed, I was fully represented and legal issues were brought up in the hearing that I believe made an impact on the case and judge in my favor. This vets NOD / appeal for help to BVA was met with heavy résistance and no actions or any attempts by VA R.O. personnel to assist the veteran (violating duty to assist legal requirements). My claim was improperly & inadequately "reviewed" upon appeal by a negligent review officer(s) and "denied" for no lawful reason by the VA Seattle regional office; who were unable and or unwilling to legally, efficiently, responsibly, timely and objectively review and rate my claim in accordance to the validated facts contained in the claim (medical records, buddy statements, x-rays, MRI tests, sleep study results, VA comp and pen exams, nexus letters, etc.). Gustad is the law firm that knows and points out these same laws and regulations that in my claim for disability were carelessly disregarded by untrained, reckless and essentially corrupt VBA employees. Unlike typical VA raters and unqualified unaccountable VBA management cronies, Gustad used this information as clear and convincing evidence that undoubtedly & plainly supported my disability claim. We won't know the final determination by the BVA for a few more weeks, months or years but I did want to recognize an outstanding job, competent legal counsel and knowledge of both social security and VA disability LAW. I believe my case has the best chance of increasing my VA disability rating based on the facts and the legal manner Gustad entered into the record concerning my claim / appeal. I would hire Gustad again in the future and already recommend Gustad Law Group to vets encountering a VA disability rating system that sometimes doesn't make any sense and often ignore their own policies, procedures and laws; creating harmful damages, unlawful treatment and unnecessary infliction of emotional distress to the veteran; who has already done their part to protect and serve our great nation and was disabled while performing their professional duties and doing everything the government asked of them; only to have the government turn their back on them when they are injured during their military service by later incorrectly alleging the vets injuries are "not service connected." The Seattle regional office is well-known by vets for low performance measures, treating vets poorly and continues to fail basic standards to follow federal regulations and in good-faith adhere to proper legal procedures concerning processing a disability compensation claim in an impartial, neutral and unbiased manner. Due to VA officials delaying (6 years, 11 months to date) claim AND denying my appeal for no valid legal reason(s), I was forced to hire an attorney and lose additional thousands of dollars in attorney fees to have my disability claim taken seriously, properly considered and legally evaluated by a BVA judge in this matter. Thanks again everyone at Gustad Law Group. I deeply appreciate your help and support. anonymous in Olympia read more

My story starts like most of us Veterans. In 2009, I was forced out of the military from budget cuts. They were finding any reason to let myself and others out of their enlistment. I had initial issues with pain while walking, and short-term memory loss. The Navy pumped me full of steroids to see if it would help with my leg issues. It did have a good reaction and made me start feeling better, but at the same time my weight exploded. The Navy excused me from the yearly PRT, but not the body weight. They discharged me with an honorable discharge because of weight issues that were brought on by my medical conditions. The VA had me do an initial examination for service connection disabilities. Like most of us, I was sent to a doctor that just looked me over and sent me on my way. They serviced connected me for symptoms of a bigger issue. As time passed, I screamed at the Spokane VA telling them something was wrong with me. I had more normal day functions becoming difficult. The VA at that time miss diagnosed me with Parkinson's Disease brought on by family history of having the disease, but none of the treatments they were giving me had any effect on my progression. It wasn't until about 8 years went by, they finally did a MRI on my brain and saw it full with scar tissues, and I also had two active lesions on my brain. It was Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. I filed for VA disability compensation at that time. The VA denied me because I was passed the presumption period of diagnosis of the disease. That is when I started to seek legal advice. I searched all over the Pacific Northwest for any attorney that would help me to fight the injustice that the Veterans Affairs was giving me. It wasn't until John-Paul Gustad and Corey Davenport heard my case that they immediately said they would sign on to represent me in my fight for the rights and what I am deserved. John-Paul personally told me that he would fight all the way up to the Supreme Court if needed. I like most of you Veterans have seen horrible things or told to do things that would put yourself in danger of disease or injury for our call to serve our amazing country. I just one minute we could be sent into dangerous conditions like myself in Navy Shipyards or injured in the line of battle. We sit at home after our service and scream for someone to hear our cries in our personal battle of the scars our service left on our bodies. The only people that listened was Gustad Law Group. Where everyone turned and ran, they stepped up to fight for me. They took my case all the way to the Board of Veterans Affairs, and during the hearing I heard first-hand how John-Paul took this fight on. He stood in front of the Board's Judge, and he spoke about the entire injustice that was given to me. How the VA system left me out to dry while I suffered so many years of pain. How when everyone tried to tell me I was not service connected---He told them how I was. I won my case because of Gustad Law Group. They stood beside me for the years it took to get justice. They were there from the first time spoke with Corey Davenport until today. I firmly give my recommendation for any Veteran out there that feels like nobody cares or will listen. Gustav Law group will listen and fight for you. read more

To whom it may concern Re: Gustad Law offices My name is Ron L I was referred to Gustad Law Group from a friend of mine that had used their services in the past and had a very successful outcome. I had already spoken with several people that were trained in positions to assist people like me with their claims, however it seemed I wasn't getting any help and other than my situation becoming worse almost daily, there still was nothing was happening with my claims. So I contacted John Paul at Gustad Law offices and told him my story. Right from the start things began to happen. First of all, they were straight up honest with me regarding my case. They told me what I needed to do, what I should expect, and approximately how long it might take to conclude. I didn't always hear the answers that I wanted to here but I did always get an honest answer. I needed help with my Social Security claim that seemed to be going nowhere. I also needed help with an appeals claim to the Veterans Administration that also seemed to be going nowhere. I think the folks at Gustad Law Offices were great. I know I called a few times, (well maybe quite a few times), wondering if anything was happening with my case yet, and each time no matter who I spoke with they were always very patient and professional with me. Sometimes, I know I was being rather impatient, yet each time the staff would explain things to me and they would get me calmed down. In hind sight, everything that I was told by John Paul, Corey, or whomever I spoke with, came to pass just as they assured me that it would. I highly recommend the Gustad Law Office to anyone that is need of legal help with a Social Security claim or a VA claim. The process can take a little while but that is a given when one deals with the Government. You can be sure that it will take a lot longer without the right legal team representing you. If you want to be represented by the best, and you want the best results possible from your case, and you want it done in a timely manner, then Gustad Law Offices needs to be your next phone call. Thank you so much John Paul, Corey, and the entire staff for all your help and patients. Ron Leise read more

If you are a retired veteran or a veteran of any kind that was injured during your service, and want to apply for VA disability. Then I highly recommend the Gustad Law Group in Seattle Washington. Not only is Mr. Gustad highly knowledgeable in applying for Social Security disability insurance (SSDI), but they are extremely experienced in getting you VA disability benefits also. If I knew then what I know now. I would have had representation when I applied for my VA benefits several years ago. It was a long tedious process, and unnecessary. I should have had a experienced individual Handle my case. which would have saved me months of time and months of stress. Once I received my 100% disability rating from the VA. I then applied for SSDI. I initially applied for SSDI benefits myself; but soon discovered that it's nearly impossible for for someone without experience to go through the process alone. Nobody at the Social Security Department will help you with the application process, and in many instances they will purposely keep you in the dark so your application process will fail. It took nearly two years before I was approved, but then was quickly denied when my application went to Quality Control. At that point I decided I needed expert help, so I contacted Mr Gustad. Mr. Gustad and his team were very knowledgeable and had Decades of from all the research I had done. Experience is needed if you're applying for SSDI. Take it from somebody who knows. You cannot go through the process by yourself. It takes an experienced individual to navigate the process in order to get a favorable outcome. With Mr. Gustad representing me. I was able to win my SSDI case including back pay. If you're a veteran, you need somebody who has experience handling cases for veterans. I am actually a retired Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant and I am telling you as someone who initially applied without help,.. you need help. Mr. Gustad is that man. read more

When I began the process of applying for Social Security disability, I thought I was prepared. As a Registered Nurse and a certified Case Manager, I had learned about the needed requirements and assisted others in navigating the application process. I was wrong. I needed help and chose the Gustad Law Group. The support I received from Mr. Gustad and his team helped me to a "Fully Favorable" decision. I thought, finally, after almost 3 years, Mr Gustad resolved my Social Security Administration disability case. That wasn't to be the case. Instead, my case was incorrectly classified and the benefit was slashed. In addition, I was to pay back $30,000. I immediately provided all the documents to correct the error. Then, COVID hit and I spent months getting no where and your team had not even been paid for your services. When I learned this, I called your office and Angela received my call. From that day forward, Angela, became my liaison to the Social Security Administration Disability office. At this point, I felt so broken and defeated. Angela would finally get the error resolved, however, it took over a year for this error to be corrected. Angela kept me well informed and really eased my anxiety. I felt relieved to have her on my side; she is such an asset to your Law Group. I want to express my sincere gratitude to your team; I never expected to be so well supported after the Disability hearing, as you continued to fight for me through the most extraordinary times of the COVID pandemic. I can't express enough the gratitude my family and I have for Mr. Gustad and his team, and I would recommend the Gustad Law Group to anyone receiving a denial from the Social Security Administration. read more

So what do Donald Trump and John Paul Gustad have in common? They're both hotheads with over-inflated egos, don't like it when someone exposes the truth about them and wildly abuse what they perceive as their positions of authority. After Gustad saw my previous review, he soiled his pants throwing a hissifit. I had sent a very polite note thanking him and his staff and asking to obtain my records, which I have the right to do. After a week, I had not heard from his office, so I called them. His receptionist, a really rude unmentionable who refused to provide me with her name, for obvious reason, would not help me, transferred me directly to Gustad's voicemail, and I once again, very politely asked about retrieving my records. Well, in response, I have now received an ooohsoscary letter from the idiot claiming I was hostile in my online review (yes, I agree!!), therefore he's giving me a Notice Against Trespassing and has supposedly reported me to the Seattle Police because he perceives me as a Threat. Hahahahahaha!! If I wasn't disabled, I would roll on the floor with laughter!! What a weenie cissypuss, hahahaha!! I've been to his office once to drop off documents, talked to him once ever and called a couple of times to ask for my records, and he perceives me as a threat?? I repeat, hahahahaha!!! I'm once again, ever so glad I've gotten rid of this despicable worm and no longer have to deal with him. BTW, as part of his tantrum, he has maliciously destroyed all my records. Which could be grounds for my suing him, but thankfully I can obtain copies elsewhere, and he's really not worth the time of day. Like I said before, people, RUN from this jerk!!! read more

John Paul Gustad reached out to me after I filed a claim for disability and had been denied twice and I requested legal help through the state. Although he was not the only attorney to contact me, he was the one who took real time to talk with me and get to know my situation. He asked intuitive questions and answered MY questions because HE CARED! This is a lengthy process from requesting a hearing to getting a hearing date scheduled, but once the time came, when we walked into the conference/courtroom, I had complete confidence that Mr. Gustad had prepared everything necessary, and had put together a winning argument in favor of my claim. The judge was absolutely pursuaded to find in my favor, and to overturn the two previous denials, without the need for further evaluation or testimony from any other professional. In fact, the judge expressed that Mr. Gustad had prepared my case so well that he only had 3 very easy questions for me, rather than the typical barrage of questions he has for people filing for Disability. Mr. Gustad and his team worked diligently to ensure that my file was complete and up-to-date, and they treated me with compassion. I am extremely thankful for all of their help and for the tremendous burden of stress and anxiety that was alleviated due to their outstanding efforts, and I am extremely relieved that they were able to help me achieve a successful outcome for my claim. Without a doubt, it is my recommendation that John-Paul Gustad be the FIRST choice for personal injury and disability claims. I only wish I'd known about him when I was first injured. read more

"I would highly recommend Attorney John-Paul Gustad and the Gustad Law Group to anyone that is looking for effective, individualized representation if their initial application for SSDI/SSI benefits is denied. Attorney John-Paul Gustad and the Gustad Law Group has extraordinary experience and expertise, along with their staff's skill, knowledge and ability to provide the most effective zealous legal representation and attention possible regarding SSDI/SSI claims for disability from the initial intake through the award of benefits and the post-entitlement process. As a US Navy Disabled Veteran, I was extremely pleased with my successful outcome in obtaining my benefits and I was particularly moved by their unwavering support and compassion for my service. While the process can be challenging, and perhaps an impossible uphill battle otherwise with adjudication during my reconsideration appeal, I was pleasantly surprised upon receiving a fully favorable decision without further denial, or delay. I was greatly reassured, and remained informed all the way through the entire process by John-Paul Gustad and the Gustad Law Group upon successfully winning these benefits for me, whom not only eliminated any remote uncertainty I may have had, but rather provided me with a great deal of peace of mind. My family and I are eternally grateful for John-Paul Gustad and the Gustad Law Group, and again I would absolutely recommend them without reservation." Arthur E. Childs Jr., US Navy, Retired. read more

Filing for disability has been a complete nightmare. I suffer due to multiple injuries, arthritis and full body Fibromyalgia. The brain fog made dealing with paperwork a living hell. I was denied by the state twice and told by a judge a third would almost guarantee a total claim denial altogether. After a recommendation to get a lawyer I decided to check the internet. I stumbled across Gustad Law Group and checked for reviews. They all seemed genuinely positive and from real people. I called and talked with a representative and she was knowledgeable, kind, and spoke in ways I could understand. I felt confident in that first call and retained their services immediately. Within just a few months they had gathered and processed an insane amount of medical history and posed it in a way that was cohesive and undeniable. I was told by the Judge a few days ago during my  hearing that we had won and it was all due to my lawyer and their numerous and efficient efforts. Gustad Law took all the stress away, communicated well, and made sure I had all the info I needed for my hearing. They were also able to fix the mistakes I had made when filing. I feel blessed I found them because my disability approval has saved our family financially and we can keep our home. I can't possibly thank them enough for everything. They truly saved us. I highly recommend their services. Thank you Gustad Law Group! read more

Did a great job! Was Approved in 2012 I filed a total three times. The third time my counselor at the time told me to get an attorney, so I looked one up, and Gustad was the closest to where I was at at the time. He was with a different firm at the time and was about to transfer his cases to start his firm, but he fully committed to my case and walked me through the steps and helped me get the doctors appointments and interviews that I needed to get approved. When my third Application was denied, this was when he was hired. He helped me get a judge to give me a court date. Gustad and I went to the Social Security court in downtown Seattle, and I was approved that day thanks to him. I definitely would use him again and matter fact this morning I recommended him to a friend of mine who is starting the Social Security process. If you're looking for a decent, hardworking attorney, he's your guy. By the way, he didn't charge me anything until after I won my case which was almost a year. He kept on working on it, and his assistant, and secretaries made sure to keep me up to date of what was going on and reminded me of appointments when necessary. In all, I think I was charged $3,000 or so for his work, but it came out of my Social Security back payment after the fact via the government. read more

From my initial contact with Gustad Law Group to the completion of the legal process, I could not have been more satisfied. We were treated with dignity and respect by the entire staff throughout the whole of the process. Communication is outstanding; access to staff and information are the norm, rarely did I wait for a callback to immediate concerns or required assistance. TBI cases are not easily navigated and seeking those who can relate can be difficult, however, this is not the case with this firm. They are well educated and informed, and just as crucial, understand the importance of being good listeners. Gustad Law Group's level of excellence and integrity gave me the confidence to rest in the fact that I knew my son's case was in the best of hands. Our son's case was not an easy one, and while we are beyond pleased our son's case was ruled in his favor, that outcome would have had no bearing on this review because the facts, herein, would have remained the same. I highly recommend Gustad Law Group to anyone with a legitimate case that is seeking superior counsel. Thank you, J.P. Gustad, for your efforts on our son's behalf to help him to not only receive the benefits he is entitled to, but for the trickle down it represents in quality of life and hope for his future. read more

I cannot thank Gustad Law Group enough for helping me win my disability case!! The entire process was overwhelming and stressful before I had Gustad's help, and I truly do not believe I would have gotten through it or won my case without their help and guidance!! If you are struggling with the disability process and feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or unheard, I highly recommend them. My lawyer took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and make sure I understood what to expect every step of the way. He helped me organize and explain my situation in a way the judge could fully understand, which made a huge difference!! Instead of feeling terrified and alone, I felt prepared, supported, and genuinely cared about. You can tell he truly cares about the people he represents and wants the best outcome for them, not just the case itself. The secretary was also incredibly kind and understanding, which made such a difference during a stressful time! Having the right lawyer matters more than people realize. Because of their hard work, patience, guidance, and dedication, I finally have some stability and peace of mind moving forward!! I will always appreciate everything they did for me, and I'm beyond grateful I had Gustad Law Group in my corner!!! read more

I'm very glad I chose Gustad Law Group to represent me in my SSI case - they're the real deal. After a couple years of struggling with the process on my own and getting a denial, I turned to Gustad Law Group for the appeal, and they won my hearing! They also made the process less daunting throughout. They seem to understand that some disabilities can make things like filling in all the paperwork correctly and on time, keeping up with the calls, and presenting your case in court challenging, and they were patient and willing to work with me through any such challenges. It felt like they took me seriously and understood my struggles without being condescending. They also seem to be inclusive and respectful of LGBTQIA+ clients. The prep call the day before the hearing was helpful in knowing what to expect, and Mr. Gustad offered useful guidance. He has a knack for how to frame things and get the message across even when it comes to complex situations and symptoms. The call after the hearing about the positive outcome and how to navigate the next steps was helpful, too. Overall, it felt like they genuinely wanted to help, and they're effective and efficient at what they do. I recommend the firm to anyone else struggling to get the benefits they need. read more

John-Paul Gustad at Gustad Law Group, Seattle, has done no less than make the remainder of my life livable by winning my Social Security Disability case! After unsuccessful - and immensely stressful - attempts at getting approval for disability status for my various physical and mental health conditions (including Autism - a clear and unambiguous condition listed among the qualifying conditions) I was SO lucky to be referred to Gustad Law Group on this final effort. Mr. Gustad and his staff were truly amazing in making sure I was comfortable, informed, and they were so considerate of my needs, going out of their way to put me at ease. As discouraged and disheartened as I was after initial failure, Mr. Gustad and his team made me feel hopeful for the first time in years. That hope was not misplaced! Gustad Law Group lifted the enormous burden of fighting for disability benefits on my own, and WON MY CASE! I would recommend to anyone seeking Disability Benefits that no matter how clear and convincing you believe your case may be - it is almost certain that you will be denied without proper and qualified legal counsel. I can recommend Gustad Law without any reservation or hesitation whatsoever. I truly believe their efforts saved my life. read more

I was referred to Gustad by Mike Shaw at the Guardians Foundation in Spokane, WA ((208) 449-1210). I would like to make a SHOUT OUT to them for assisting me when I became homeless in 2016! They saved my life. Please look them up and support them as much as possible. I am a disabled Veteran (U.S.A.F. '78-'83), and this law firm has worked diligently and faithfully to assist me in obtaining my SSDI. When I had questions, they answered all my questions promptly and with true professionalism, but also with heart and care. Even when I was not as "available" as I should have been due to my disability - they were there for me. They assisted in and handled the paperwork, reminded me when I needed to return something quickly due to SSDI statutory date requirements. It all worked and we succeeded. Also, I would like to extend special appreciation to John-Paul for driving all the way from Seattle to Portland to fight for my case. The day before the hearing he called and made sure I was prepared. I also want to extend my appreciation to Angela, Rachel and Bryan for assisting in my case. All of you were patient with me and extended professional and caring courtesy to me in all my correspondences. THANK YOU SO MUCH GUSTAD! read more

My wife was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. The struggle had been a hard journey finding out what was wrong with her because of how little doctors and science know about it. Eventually we came to the conclusion that she would need to apply for disability as the doctors told us any form of recovery was extremely unlikely. I searched for lawyers specifically for disability and fortunately I found Gustad Law Group. He was honest with me and told me disability cases involving CFS and ME are very hard to win. After taking her case into consideration he decided to take it on. He was very thorough, ensuring all her medical records were in place. He kept in contact with us and kept us up to date. We are particularly appreciative that he persevered with our case over the phone while this COVID -19 Pandemic went on. We are absolutely grateful and impressed with his professionalism and his staff's due diligence regarding every detail. Mr. Gustad made it possible for my wife to tell the government that she is sick and that she needs help. Thank you very much from the bottom of our hearts and we appreciate all that you do. Thank you Gustad Law Group. read more

I'm writing this review with gratitude in my heart. I hired Gustad law in 2021 to assist me with applying for SSDI. As many of you find out, it's a long and bumpy journey that takes time and patience. The Gustad law team provided me with invaluable support and guidance. I communicated with Maddie, Juan and, of course, John-Paul Gustad. At one point I was out of the country and even under the circumstances they made themselves available through virtual meetings. Maddie and Juan timely reminded me what documents and records were needed, and updated on the upcoming deadlines. Before hearing, Mr. Gustad called me and we had a thorough discussion in order to prepare me for the possibility of being questioned by the judge. He gave me important advice. On the day of the hearing Mr. Gustad not just acted on my behalf but fought for me by pointing out significant facts that testifying doctors missed. He called me after the hearing and let me know that I won. What a relief! Mr. Gustad also spent more time explaining the next steps and process essentials. During the whole application process I was supported by Gustad law group. They fought for me! read more

I am a 100% disabled veteran and I applied for social security disability over two years ago. My first application was denied, as was my appeal. I requested a hearing by an administrative law judge, as the decisions were unfair and defied the overwhelming medical evidence of my case. I contacted Mr. Gustad's office and asked them to represent me in my hearing. After my induction interview, I had little hope the outcome of the hearing would be any different, despite encouragement from Mr. Gustad's office. After delivering supporting documents, and approving access to my information at Social Security, they quietly went to work preparing my case. The day of the hearing came, and I was amazed at the evidence and supporting arguments that Mr. Gustad presented on my behalf. He truly understands the law and the Social Security system, and laid out a clear and concise case supported by my medical evidence. My case was approved and his amazing work will change my life. I could have never made the case he made by myself. I highly recommend employing him if you are faced with a similar dilemma. You will be glad you did! read more

Nothing But Net!! Well...what a ride! I feel like I should bring Gustad Law Group before the masses to a singalong of "We Are The Champions" (Queen) They are that good! I cannot begin to tell you how grateful I am for the direction I was given by my Higher Power to bring on such a Professional Corporation like Gustad Law Group. It was from the very beginning when I spoke with Mr. John-Paul Gustad, he was just very intent of hearing my story and challenges. It was his certainty and with that, I put in their hands. I had been previously denied and months turned into years...and on it went. (2014-present) As anyone knows, it is time consuming beyond the realm of possibility, extremely stressful, driven by tears and complete angst. The hard part is once the case is ready, it is in the hands of the Social Security Administration and the waiting game begins. Through it all, they were there to answer questions and understood my concerns and gave reassurance. Thats is all one can ask for and again, I am grateful to Summer and ALL the staff at Gustad Law Group. Job well done folks! Bravo & Cheers! ~Danny Gordon read more