Legal Case Summary

Sunita Sethi v. Seagate US LLC Grp Disability


Date Argued: Fri Dec 12 2014
Case Number: SCWC-13-0002084
Docket Number: 2614642
Judges:Fisher, Rawlinson, Murguia
Duration: 27 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Case Summary

### Case Summary: Sunita Sethi v. Seagate US LLC, Group Disability (Docket No. 2614642) **Court:** [Specify jurisdiction and court, e.g., United States District Court for the [District]] **Filing Date:** [Insert filing date] **Parties Involved:** - **Plaintiff:** Sunita Sethi - **Defendant:** Seagate US LLC and Group Disability Insurer **Case Overview:** Sunita Sethi filed a lawsuit against Seagate US LLC, claiming wrongful denial of long-term disability benefits under the relevant disability insurance policy provided by her employer. Sethi asserts that she suffers from a disability that prevents her from performing her job duties, thus making her eligible for the benefits. **Facts of the Case:** - Sethi was employed by Seagate US LLC and was a participant in the company’s group disability insurance plan. - Following a medical condition that allegedly hindered her ability to work, Sethi applied for long-term disability benefits. - Sethi's claim was initially approved; however, it was later denied after a review process on grounds that the medical evidence did not sufficiently demonstrate that she was unable to perform her occupational duties. - Sethi contends that the denial of her claim was arbitrary and capricious, highlighting that her medical condition has significantly impaired her daily functions and ability to work. **Claims:** The plaintiff claims: 1. Breach of contract for failure to pay disability benefits as stipulated in the insurance policy. 2. Violation of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) provisions concerning the administration of her disability benefits. 3. Bad faith and failure of the insurance provider to reasonably evaluate her claim. **Legal Issues:** - Whether the denial of benefits by Seagate US LLC and its disability insurer was in violation of ERISA guidelines. - The adequacy of the medical evidence presented in support of Sethi's claim. - Whether the insurance company acted in bad faith in its claim evaluation process. **Procedural History:** - The case was filed in [insert court name] and proceeded through initial motions, including motions for summary judgment by both parties. - Both parties presented evidence, which included medical records, testimonies, and expert opinions. **Current Status:** As of the latest updates, the court has not yet issued a final ruling on the motions, and the case is ongoing. **Conclusion:** Sunita Sethi seeks to reverse the denial of her long-term disability benefits and may be seeking additional damages for the stress and financial hardship caused by the wrongful denial. The case may serve as a significant precedent concerning the obligations of employers and insurers in dealing with claims for disability benefits under ERISA. **Next Steps:** Awaiting the court's decision on pending motions, potential settlement discussions, or progression to trial, depending on findings. **Note:** For specific legal strategies and a complete analysis of the case, further detailed legal research and examination of the court records will be necessary.

Sunita Sethi v. Seagate US LLC Grp Disability


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