Attorneys & Staff

Meet Our Attorneys & Representatives 

JAN DILS
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Since 1994, Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, LC, has offered professional, caring service to all of its clients. Now serving the Parkersburg, Charleston, Logan and Beckley areas. Jan Dils and her firm are experienced in all forms of Social Security and Disability benefits, Veteran's Benefits and Personal Injury cases.

Jan Dils graduated from Marietta College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Marketing and Economics. She then went on to receive her Masters in Business Administration in 1991, and her law degree from West Virginia University in 1994. That same year, she was admitted to the West Virginia Bar, and began practicing in Parkersburg. The focal point of her practice has been helping clients with Social Security, Veteran's Benefits and Personal Injury Law. Jan is a sustaining member of the National Association of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR).

ANGIE THOMPSON
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Dedication to providing a voice for those who are not always heard is the driving force behind Angie Thompson and her work as an Attorney for Jan Dils. After personally meeting with her clients, Angie works on preparing each claim, then represents her clients at hearings. Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Angie finished her law degree and completed an internship with The Women's Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh.

Angie earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Westminster College in 2004. She went on to earn her Juris Doctorate from Duquesne Law School in 2008. Angie is also accredited within the Department of Veterans' Administration, which gives her valuable experience, knowledge and insight into many areas of specific concern to veterans.

CRAIG LAVENDER
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Craig completed his undergraduate degree in Natural Sciences and Mathematics at Washington and Lee University where he excelled in both the classroom and on the football field. Craig then graduated from the University of Richmond, T.C. Williams School of Law in 2003. He then worked as a Public Defender in the 25th Judicial Circuit for two years Following his work as a Public Defender, Craig spent two years practicing Social Security and Personal Injury law. He is admitted to practice in both State and Federal Court in West Virginia.

HEATHER E. VANHOOSE
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Before returning to her home state of West Virginia, Heather gained a valuable mix of education and experience that make her such an important part of the Jan Dils team. She graduated from Hobart William Smith colleges (Geneva, New York) in 1999 with a double major in political science and environmental studies. She then attended Roger Williams University School of Law and graduated in 2002. Upon graduation from law school, Heather moved to Washington D.C. and was admitted to the District of Columbia Bar. Not long after that, Heather moved home to West Virginia and practiced law for over four years with the not-for-profit firm Mountain State Justice. There, she focused on helping low income families with consumer protection issues. Heather joined the Jan Dils team in the summer of 2007 and is now focusing on Social Security and Veterans benefits. Heather is a member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR).

JIM LEACH
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Prior to teaming with Jan Dils in Personal Injury matters, Jim Leach acquired extensive experience practicing cases involving personal injury and death in West Virginia, Ohio and Virginia. A former Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for the Wood County Prosecuting Attorney's Office in Parkersburg, Mr. Leach received a Bachelor of Science Degree and his law degree from West Virginia University. Licensed in West Virginia, Ohio, and Virginia.

JAIME LEWIS
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A motivation to help others is perhaps one of Jaime Lewis' most outstanding qualities. After initial meetings with clients to discus their claims, Jaime works to prepare each client, and represents them at hearings. She is always quick to respond to her clients' inquiries or needs, and offers an understanding approach throughout the process. Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Jaime practiced as a General Litigation Attorney in the Insurance Defense Field. This invaluable experience ensures that she knows how to take on insurance companies that have denied claims. Jaime earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a concentration in Neurological Psychology and a minor in Neuroscience from Pennsylvania State University in 2002. She went on to earn her Juris Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 2005. Her education and background in biological psychology help Jaime understand both the physical and psychological issues associated with clients' claims, while her previous legal positions requiring frequent client contact help her assist clients with a variety of needs.

JOSHUA STONE: CERTIFIED VETERANS REPRESENTATIVE
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Josh's background as a hospital corpsman in the U.S. Navy makes him the perfect choice to oversee the day-to-day operations of the Veterans Disability Division for the Jan Dils team. His responsibilities include new client intake, medical records review, case work-up, pre-hearings, hearings, and countless additional duties within the organization. During his time in the Service, Josh was deployed overseas on multiple occasions with the U.S. Marine Corps as a Combat Medic. Since that time, he has worked in the healthcare field as a licensed nurse in the state of West Virginia.

Josh is an Accredited Non-Attorney Claims Representative/Agent for benefits within the Department of Veterans Administration, and regularly attends hearings with attorneys. He is also a current member of the National Organization of Veterans' Advocates (NOVA). His tireless commitment to helping veterans receive their benefits has made Josh an incredible asset to our clients, and a valuable member of the Jan Dils team.

SHANNAN HINZMAN: CERTIFIED SOCIAL SECURITY CLAIMANTS REPRESENTATIVE
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As a certified Social Security Advocate, for Jan Dils' law practice, Shannan Hinzman shares her experience, knowledge and a caring attitude with each and every client. Having previously been contracted by the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review of the Social Security Administration, she has thirteen years' experience in the area of Social Security law. She graduated from WVU in 1995 with an Associates degree in business administration and psychology. On a daily basis, Shannan processes and reviews medical records looking for information that demonstrates our clients are medically disabled while arranging that information in a format that allows our attorneys and advocates to convince the Judges that our clients are disabled. She is a member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR). Shannan is a dedicated worker and a great asset to our firm.

VIRGINIA MAYLE
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Virginia Mayle's education and experience in law and disability have made her a valuable addition to the Jan Dils team. A former associate with Barkan and Barkan, Attorney at Law, Virginia also worked for the Ohio Bureau of Disability Determination. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Ohio University, a Master's Degree from Kent State University, and her law degree from Ohio State University. Admitted to practice law in Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Ohio, Sixth Circuit, and the U.S. Court of Appeals. Virginia is also a member of NOSSCR.

Meet Our Staff

AMANDA J. UNRUE: RECEPTIONIST
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As the person answering phones and greeting clients, Amanda sets a tone of professionalism and caring when clients first contact the offices of Jan Dils. She is also responsible for entering new client information into the computer system, submitting records, calling on medical records, and other office duties. Before joining the Jan Dils team, Amanda was a Private Investigator, as well as a Correctional Officer. Both positions gave her a unique understanding of the legal system. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from WV State College in 2002, as well as an Associate's Degree in Legal Office Assisting from WV Junior College in June 2009. Her experience, education and, most of all, her patient and understanding attitude make Amanda an excellent addition to the Jan Dils team.

ANGELA COLLINS
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Angela has worked with the public for more than sixteen years. She is the senior support staff in both the Charleston and Logan offices. On a daily basis, Angela obtains narratives, capacity reports, and medical records from Health Care Providers to document client disability claims. Additionally, Angela's background provides her with the ability and knowledge to guide our clients through every step of the Social Security disability and SSI litigation process. She works closely with the attorneys to obtain information from clients and other sources to process our clients' disability claims timely and efficiently. Angela is a dedicated worker and a great asset to our firm.

BRIAN LINDENMUTH
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Personal Injury Assistant Brian Lindenmuth has been a licensed claims adjuster for six years. Brian is a 1996 graduate of West Virginia State College with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. Prior to his employment with Jan Dils, Brian served as a claims adjuster for an insurance company, where he specialized in bodily injury cases. This experience, and a caring attitude, makes Brian a valuable addition to the Jan Dils team for Personal Injury claims.

CARRIE DAY: ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING CLERK
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With a background that includes 12 years in the healthcare industry and 10 years working with the VA, Carrie Day brings a solid base of knowledge to her position with the Jan Dils team. Carrie's role includes putting pre-hearings and hearings together, ensuring that all documents are received in time for the hearing, submitting records and documents to the Office of Adjudication and Review, and much more. Carrie attended WVU-P, and prior to joining the Jan Dils team, she served as the Director of Marketing and Admissions for a long term care facility. Her background in management enables Carrie to coordinate with all departments in an efficient and professional manner, ensuring that all necessary information is accurate and available to the attorneys when they need it.

DAWN HOLIDAY: VETERANS BENEFIT REPRESENTATIVE
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Based in Jan Dils' Charleston office, Dawn Holliday brings a wealth of experience to her position as a member of the Veterans Disability Department. Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Dawn worked with the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney's office, and has over four years of experience as a legal assistant. She worked side by side with prosecutors to assist victims of crime in seeking resolution through the judicial system. Additionally, she has an extensive background in the health insurance industry, and was a licensed agent with the State of West Virginia for numerous property and casualty insurance companies. Dawn's diverse background enables her to better understand the client's needs from many different vantage points and is a valuable asset in helping her better assist them in navigating the process to obtain their benefits. Dawn also volunteers with numerous organizations, and enjoys working with and helping others.

JACQULINE ROBERTS
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A thorough knowledge of the medical field is essential for success in the field of Social Security/Disability claims. As Medical Records Specialist for Jan Dils, Jacquline Roberts understands the medical profession, and uses that knowledge and experience each day to the benefit of each client. Before joining the Jan Dils team six years ago, Jacquline worked in the medical library at St. Joseph's hospital gaining valuable experience that has made her such a successful member of our team.

JAIMA BROWN: PARALEGAL/LEGAL ASSISTANT
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For new clients, the disability process can seem confusing or even overwhelming. Jaima Brown puts both new and existing clients at ease, explaining the disability process, reviewing cases and completing paperwork, as well as assisting clients in person or over the phone with any questions or concerns they may have. Jaima also develops cases for hearings, a process that entails gathering provider information and other pertinent evidence for review by the attorneys. Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Jaima was a Medical Transcriptionist for a pain management clinic, as well as a Business Services Assistant for a local bank. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Ohio Valley University in 2003, and her Paralegal Certification from WVU in 2009. A unique combination of customer service experience and a background in the medical field ensures that Jaima communicates effectively with clients, and understands their disabilities and needs.

JAN JOHNSON: MEDICAL CASE REVIEW SPECIALIST
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When it comes to disability, obtaining the most accurate medical information is crucial to every case. Jan Johnson uses a combination of caring and expertise to handle this process and reassure clients during uneasy times. Jan's responsibilities include reviewing medical records and conducting medical case reviews with clients to ensure that everyone on the team has the right information at the right time. Her background as a Registered Nurse gives Jan an inside track to the "ins and outs" of the medical profession and the paperwork associated with it. Before joining the Jan Dils team, Jan worked as a nurse in South Carolina, assisting with surgeries and procedures, as well as patient teaching and telephone triage.

Jan earned her LPN from Wood County Vocational School, then continued her nursing education to earn her RN. She has 30 years worth of experience in nursing in hospitals and physicians offices, and brings a unique skill set and an attitude of caring concern for each client to the Jan Dils team.

KATHERINE HARTLEY: LEGAL ASSISTANT/CASE DEVELOPMENT
EmailSince she joined the Jan Dils team in 2005, Katherine Hartley has worked with new and existing clients. Her knowledge in the area of Social Security makes her an invaluable asset to clients with questions or concerns about the process of receiving their benefits. In addition, Katherine reviews cases, completes necessary paperwork, and develops cases for hearing by gathering information and evidence for review by the attorneys. Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Katherine worked as an Administrative Assistant and as a Technical Writer for a government contractor. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from WVU with a major in Public Relations and a Minor in Business in 1989. In addition to the responsibilities outlined above, Katherine also trains other employees and assists clients with many aspects of the process, from beginning to end.

PAM CANNOY
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Based in our Beckley Office, Pam has 8 years of experience as Medical Office Manager and 6 years of insurance experience. Pam obtains narratives, capacity reports, and medical records from Health Care Providers to document client disability claims. Pam provides herself on providing a superior level of support for each of our clients, and it shows through the quality of her work.

REBECCA MILLER: LEGAL ASSISTANT, RECORDS & INFORMATION REQUESTS
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Compiling records is a crucial aspect of building a successful case. Rebecca Miller excels at her position, researching and requesting medical records, school records, provider assessments and letters, as well as other information needed for cases. In addition, she also assists clients by answering questions and updating their files as necessary. Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Rebecca worked at AT&T as a Customer Service Representative, gaining valuable experience in identifying customer needs and creating solutions, all while maintaining a positive attitude. She also worked in the oil and gas industry, performing research and creating property spreadsheets. Rebecca earned her Associates Degree in Human Services and Corrections with a Major in Adult Corrections from Hocking College in 2006. She has also received extensive ongoing training in Social Security laws, rules and regulations, resulting in an increased capacity for helping clients with their questions, concerns and issues.

REGINA LAW
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Regina Law has been an integral part of Jan Dils' practice from the start. Previously with the Wood County Magistrate Court, Regina brings fifteen years experience in the legal field to her position. Proficient in all aspects of Social Security claims, she is currently in charge of filing all claims and appeals for all of the Jan Dils offices. She also, processes all Social Security Decisions that come into the office and is the expert on how client benefits are calculated. Reginia also fields all client questions and calls about how and when their benefits will be paid. She is a dedicated worker and a great asset to our firm.

RHONDA CASTO: VA DEPARTMENT & COLLECTIONS 
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Rhonda Casto understands that the Jan Dils team is just that: a team. With that in mind, Rhonda prides herself on helping co-workers and clients in any way she can. Her positive attitude makes all the difference in her position in the VA Department, which currently includes sorting and organizing records, faxing requests and scheduling. Her education and prior experience in the transportation industry have given her the ability to work in a fast paced environment and tackle any challenges that come her way, whether they are expected or last-minute additions. Rhonda's belief that taking pride in whatever you do leads to success has proven true in her expanding role as part of the Jan Dils team.

SHAWANA JOHNSON: PARALEGAL/LEGAL ASSISTANT & OFFICE MANAGER
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Shawna Johnson is involved in nearly every disability case taken on by Jan Dils' Charleston office. Her responsibilities include working closely with the attorneys to obtain information from clients and other sources in order to process each client's disability claim in a timely and efficient manner. Shawna also prepares case loads for Pre-Hearings and Hearings. In addition, she obtains narratives, capacity reports and medical records from health care providers to assist in documenting disability claims, and manages the overall operations of the Charleston branch office.

Prior to joining the Jan Dils team, Shawna worked in the legal field in the areas of family law, civil litigation, deeds, wills and real estate. Her experience, efficiency and positive attitude combine to make her an incredible member of the Jan Dils team.

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