Bethany K. Laurence

Bethany K. Laurence

Attorney · UC Law San Francisco

Bethany Laurence is a Senior Legal Editor at Nolo, where she has worked since 1997. She holds a J.D. from UC Law San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings) and is a member of the California Bar. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English from Boston University. 

Disability law. At Nolo, Bethany is the editor for the Disability Law Center and the Social Security and Medicare Center. She edits the books Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability; The Complete IEP Guide and Social Security, Medicare, and Government Pensions. Bethany is a member of NOSSCR (National Organization of Social Security Claims Representatives).

Business law. Bethany has also combined her legal and financial expertise to edit many Nolo small business books, such as LLC or Corporation and How to Form an LLC, and is the lead editor for Nolo’s online LLC and corporation services. Over the years she has co-written several business books, including Business Buyout Agreements: Plan Now for Retirement, Death, Divorce or Owner Disagreements; Save Your Small Business: 10 Crucial Strategies to Survive Hard Times or Close Down & Move On; and Bankruptcy for Small Business Owners: How to File for Chapter 7. 

Other pursuits. In addition to her work at Nolo, Bethany co-founded several educational nonprofit organizations, including River Montessori Charter School and Red Barn Montessori, and served on their boards of directors. She most recently served on the board of the Magnet Program Foundation of Hillcrest Middle School. Bethany has also volunteered her time at a disability law clinic in the Tenderloin district of San Francisco.  

Originally from Rhode Island, Bethany enjoys reading and hiking in the redwoods of Northern California.

Articles By Bethany K. Laurence

Financial Assistance While Waiting on Disability
There is help available while you're waiting for Social Security or SSI disability payments, but you have to piece it together.
Getting Disability Benefits for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Ehlers-Danlos can affect your skin, joints, and blood vessel walls; the syndrome is characterized by extremely flexible joints and very stretchy, fragile skin.
Getting Disability Benefits for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome and Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
If you're limited in the use of your hands, arms, or fingers due to ulnar nerve problems, you may be able to get Social Security disability benefits.
Social Security Disability Backpay (Past Due Benefits)
When you applied for disability and when your disability began dictate how much backpay you'll get.
How Long Do You Have to Be Disabled Before You Can Get Disability Benefits?
You don't have to be disabled for any length of time before you apply for disability benefits, but there is a five-month waiting period to receive SSDI payments.
How Much Money Will I Get If I Qualify for Social Security Disability or SSI Benefits?
The amount of disability you'll collect depends on the program (SSI or SSDI) for which you qualify.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Workers' Comp
Find out how workers compensation works for PTSD's and if a lawyer may be required to file a claim for benefits.
Is There a Statute of Limitations for Workers' Comp Claims?
Yes, workers' compensation laws require an employee (or his or her family) to file a claim for workers' comp benefits within a certain amount of time.
Can I Be Fired While Out On Workers' Compensation?
Your employer cannot fire you merely because of your workers’ compensation claim. However, your employer can fire you while you have an open workers’ compensation claim. Legally you cannot be fired for not filing workers compensation claim. Your employer can still fire you if they present valid reasons for the termination.
Can I Fire My Workers' Compensation Lawyer?
Firing your workers' comp attorney can be risky; you may not be able to find another lawyer to take your case.