Fighting for Your Disability Benefits
Serving clients all across the United States since 1991
We are dedicated to helping you navigate the bureaucracy of the Social Security Administration to get the benefits you deserve. Over 70% of initial claims are denied – we can help.
Why Gulf South Disability Lawyers?
No Out of Pocket Expenses
There is no out-of-pocket expense to you, and we are only compensated if your claim is successful. If unsuccessful, you owe us absolutely nothing.
Dedicated Exclusively to Disability Law
We do nothing but Social Security Disability Law. We know the most effective ways to prepare successful applications and appeals.
We Fight Daily in Courts Across the Country
In 2025, we handled cases before over 150 Social Security Judges across the United States.
Has Your Disability Claim Been Denied?
Have you been denied already? We can help you with your appeal! Remember, there is only 60 days to file an appeal after you have been denied. Don’t wait – over 70% of applications are denied the first time.
Social Security Disability (SSDI)
For Those Who Have Worked
If you’ve worked and paid into Social Security for 5 of the last 10 years, you may qualify for SSDI benefits based on your earnings history.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Need-Based Benefits
SSI provides benefits regardless of work history. Singles cannot have assets over $2,000; married couples cannot exceed $3,000.
Appeals & Hearings
Fighting Denials
We handle reconsiderations, hearings before judges, and Appeals Council reviews to get you the benefits you deserve.
Initial Applications
Start Right
We help file your initial claim correctly the first time, significantly improving your chances of approval.
Our Disability Law Services
Expert representation across all areas of Disability law
What Qualifies as a Disability?
Disability is defined as the inability to do any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment expected to last at least 12 months. This includes conditions like chronic pain, mental illness, heart disease, cancer, and many other conditions that prevent you from maintaining employment. To qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits, you must have a condition that prevents you from earning a certain monthly income as a full-time worker.
Our Experienced Attorneys
George Lato
Practicing disability law since 1991, George is a Baton Rouge native and LSU Law graduate. As a sustaining member of NOSSCR, he brings over 30 years of experience fighting for disabled workers’ benefits.
Bill Matthews
Focusing exclusively on disability law since 1990, Bill specializes in mental and psychological impairments. His prior work experience in multiple industries gives him unique insight into his clients’ challenges.
Fielding C. Matkins
Fielding is the Managing Partner for Gulf South Disability Lawyers with a Juris Doctor and Diploma in Comparative Law from LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center.
What Our Clients Say
They didn't promise me a thing but a commitment to fight for my claim and if they can help fast great not so fast ok not at all it's not their fault.I just want to thank Gulf South for even taking a look at my claim,doing all the necessary verification and being honest and kind..On my end even if they can't help I know they tried and Kindness will bring you more peace..
Thanks so for the don’t know what I would’ve done with out you guy’s for everything God bless y’all
Special thanks to George A. Lato
Special thanks to Blair and Mr. Bill..:) You two are awesome!
Thanks again