About John
John Koontz is a partner at Daggett Shuler Attorneys at Law, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. With over 30 years of legal experience, he has dedicated his career to focusing on Social Security Disability and long-term disability claims. His expertise in this area is underscored by his status as a Board Certified Specialist in Social Security Disability Law, a designation granted by the North Carolina State Bar. This certification reflects his understanding of the complexities involved in disability law, making him a advocate for his clients. John earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee School of Law in 1995.
Prior to this, he obtained a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Georgia in 1991. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, which he completed cum laude at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1988. This strong educational foundation gave him critical analytical skills and a knowledge of the legal field, particularly in the realm of disability law. Before joining Daggett Shuler, John served as a staff attorney and later as a senior staff attorney for the Social Security Administration’s Office of Hearings and Appeals in both Charlotte and Greensboro, North Carolina. During his tenure in these roles, he gained experience in handling Social Security Disability cases.
This experience has proven invaluable in his current practice, where he assists clients in navigating the often complex process of obtaining Social Security Disability Benefits and Supplemental Security Income. His background in the Social Security Administration provides him with unique insights into the details of the system. At Daggett Shuler, John not only helps clients secure Social Security benefits but also represents individuals pursuing short and long-term disability benefits under private policies or employer-sponsored plans. He is committed to educating others about these critical issues and regularly conducts seminars on Social Security Disability benefits and employer-sponsored or ERISA Long-Term Disability claims. His dedication to client education reflects his belief that informed clients are empowered clients.
John is a sustaining member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives, demonstrating his commitment to advocacy in the field. He is also active in several professional organizations, including the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, the North Carolina Bar Association, and the Forsyth County Bar Association. Outside of his professional life, John resides in Winston-Salem with his family. They are actively involved in their church and enjoy spending quality time with their grandchildren, further emphasizing his commitment to community and family values.