About Burgess Disability Law

Burgess Disability Law was founded by attorney Jim Burgess (he/him), who brings more than a decade of experience litigating Social Security disability cases on behalf of the federal government. Before entering private practice, Jim served as an attorney in the Social Security Administration’s Office of the General Counsel, where he defended agency decisions in federal district court.

That experience now informs a focused, record-driven approach to representing claimants. Rather than handling cases at every stage of the administrative process, Burgess Disability Law limits its practice to federal court appeals. This narrow focus allows for close attention to the administrative record, careful evaluation of whether reversible legal error is present, and disciplined briefing grounded in the applicable statutes, regulations, and circuit precedent.

Megan graduated from The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and The University of Iowa College of Law.  Megan began her career in private practice, representing clients in toxic tort, products liability, personal injury, real estate, and commercial litigation.  She then spent a decade litigating Social Security disability cases on behalf of the federal government.  Megan represented the agency in hundreds of cases in federal district courts and Circuit Courts, achieving favorable outcomes through zealous and effective advocacy.   Megan now drafts briefs in federal court on behalf of individuals who have been denied Social Security disability benefits.

Robin Lonack is an Administrative Assistant at Burgess Disability Law, bringing years of administrative experience to the BDL practice.  She provides dependable support to both the team and our clients. Robin takes pride in anticipating needs, managing the details behind the scenes, and helping create an efficient and productive workplace.