Finding Hope Through SIBTF: Stephen Dial’s Mission to Secure Lifetime Benefits for California’s Disabled Workers.
When Maria suffered a crushing hand injury at work, it wasn’t just another workplace accident—it was a devastating blow to someone already living with disabilities from childhood polio. Like thousands of California workers, she discovered that workers’ compensation benefits alone weren’t enough to maintain financial stability. From his Anaheim Hills office, attorney Stephen Dial has spent over 35 years helping workers like Maria access a vital but often overlooked resource: the California Subsequent Injury Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF), which can provide lifetime supplemental benefits to qualifying disabled workers.
SIBTF provides crucial support for disabled workers who can no longer work due to the combined effects of their pre-existing impairments and a workplace injury. Qualifying requires meeting specific criteria: workers must have a pre-existing disability (from any source—previous injury, illness, or congenital condition) and prove that combining it with their workplace injury results in at least 70% permanent disability. This complex process demands extensive medical documentation, expert testimony, and navigating administrative procedures that many find overwhelming. Dial notes. “Injured workers deserve someone dedicated to fighting for them.” With three and a half decades of experience, Dial has made SIBTF cases the cornerstone of his practice, representing clients throughout California. His approach goes beyond legal representation—he coordinates comprehensive medical evaluations, and meticulously builds cases that can withstand intense scrutiny. For workers like Maria, whom Dial successfully represented, securing SIBTF benefits meant the difference between poverty and stability, providing ongoing support that helps maintain their homes, support their families, and access necessary medical care for life.
“This isn’t just about legal battles,” Dial reflects. “It’s about recognizing that disabled workers deserve dignity and financial security.” His message to injured workers is clear: if you’ve been hurt at work and have labor disabling, pre-existing disability, it’s worth exploring SIBTF eligibility. You don’t have to face this alone. With experienced legal representation, the SIBTF can become a bridge to lifetime financial stability. For Stephen Dial, helping injured workers access these benefits isn’t just a career—it’s a calling that has driven him for more than three decades, ensuring California’s disabled workers receive every benefit they deserve under the law.
Bar Associations
- CAAA
Member Since: 2012
Education
- Harvard Law School - J.D. - 1979
- Columbia University - B.A. - 1976
Cumma Sum Laude
Phi Beta Kappa
Languages
- English
- Spanish
Practice Areas
- Subsequent Injury Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF)
Client Reviews
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I was served with an Unlawful Detainer. As these must be responded to with a short turnaround time, Joseph was able to find time in his schedule on a Friday evening to meet with me. He did a great job of explaining the different parts of the document, documentation I needed to provide for my case...
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