Vocational Rehabilitation Assessments

Vocational Experts for Loss of Earning Capacity Cases

We evaluate the medical record, work history, education, training, testing when appropriate, labor market information, and other relevant evidence to address how an injury or illness may affect a person’s ability to work and earn. Each opinion identifies its factual basis, assumptions, methodology, and limitations so that it can be evaluated by either side.

Our Methodology

Each evaluation follows a structured process tailored to the facts and needs of the case. Depending on the referral questions, available information, and professional judgment, the evaluation may include some or all of the following:

Records Review

Medical, educational, employment, earnings, and military records, along with deposition testimony when available.
Vocational Interview

Work history, education, training, skills, and the evaluee’s own account of functional limitations.
Standardized Testing

Aptitude, academic achievement, and vocational interest measures, when clinically appropriate.
Transferable Skills Analysis

Identifying occupations that fit the person’s background within the restrictions set by treating and evaluating physicians.
Labor Market Research

Wage and employment data from government sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics, O*NET, and the U.S. Census, supplemented by direct employer contact where it adds value.
Pre-Injury and Post-Injury Earning Capacity

A reasoned comparison of what the person could earn before and after the injury, with every assumption stated in the report.

Testimony Experience

Several of our experts have served as impartial vocational experts in Social Security Administration disability hearings, testifying at the request of Administrative Law Judges in thousands of hearings combined. That work requires answering detailed hypotheticals about job availability and transferable skills, in real time, under questioning from judges and claimant representatives.

From Earning Capacity to Present Value

When a case calls for economic analysis, a separately qualified forensic economist independently applies economic methodology to the vocational findings and stated assumptions, which may include worklife expectancy, wage growth, fringe benefits, and discounting to present value. The vocational and economic opinions are issued in separate reports, and coordination within one firm can simplify communication.

What Counsel Can Expect

CVs and testimony lists on request, a clear list of records needed at intake, written reports suitable for disclosure, and availability for deposition and trial. We also provide independent peer review of vocational reports prepared by other experts, applying the same professional standards used in our original evaluations.

Trusted by Litigation Teams on Both Sides of the Docket

We work alongside plaintiff and defense counsel in federal and state courts across the country.

View All Testimonials

Wonderful experience with both the expert and staff. Ms. Peralta’s reports have repeatedly provided my clients powerful support in their cases, particularly at the point of mediation. I’d be surprised to learn if any attorney in my office wasn’t already at least occasionally retaining you guys!

Our thanks to you, Ms. Peralta, and everyone else involved for your invaluable assistance, and we look forward to working with you all again in the future. Best regards.

Trusted Client

On behalf of our client and our team, a special thanks to you and Dr. Wolfson for your time, preparation, and assistance throughout this case. Your work was greatly appreciated.

I look forward to working together again soon.

Trusted Client

We are thrilled with the services provided by Stokes & Associates, especially the work of Todd Capielano and his staff. We highly recommend their team and trust only Stokes & Associates with the needs of our clients for life care planning.

Dewayne Burrell, The Burrell Firm

Trusted Client

Dr. Lastrapes, I’m so excited by how quickly you all are moving this along. It’s a breath of fresh air and very much appreciated.

Trusted Client

The lawyers at my firm and I have enjoyed working with Stokes & Associates on continuation of care projections in our cases. Clayton and his team provide outstanding support, in a timely manner, and at a fair price. Their life care plans are thorough, well-documented, and easy to understand, making them a valuable asset in presenting long-term needs clearly and effectively. They are responsive, professional, and knowledgeable. If you haven’t had the opportunity to work on a project with Clayton, I recommend you give him a shot.

Trusted Client

Mrs. Brandy Bradley, we recently settled this particular case. Thanks for all of your excellent work and assistance.

Trusted Client

I contacted Clayton to do a life care plan on a complex case with major long-term impairments. Clayton and his team quickly jumped on board by scheduling a meeting with me, reviewing all the records I provided, and directly contacting all necessary healthcare providers. Clayton took care of everything for me behind the scenes while also keeping me fully apprised with his progress. Towards the end, he gave me a preview of the expected results to make sure they aligned with the evidentiary standards I needed to satisfy. He also recognized the need for an additional report on future lost wages and recommended a colleague at Stokes who could create that. The final product was fantastic and added significant value to my case. I would hire Clayton again in a heartbeat and would recommend the same to anyone else.

Trusted Client

Thanks for all your assistance in getting these reports done on short notice!

I will recommend your services around our office, and I’ll be in touch in the future.

Trusted Client

I was blown away by the report and will definitely engage Dr. Wolfson on my next case needing a life care planner. I look forward to working with you again in the future!

Trusted Client