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Robert Gillikin

Disability Attorney

Attorney Robert Gillikin has spent almost two decades helping social security disability and veterans' disability clients get the benefits they need and deserve. He began his legal career in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and has since passed the bar in three states, lending to his legal expertise and professionalism. Over the years, Rob has seen first-hand how frustrating and difficult the application process for disability benefits can be. Balancing his legal tenure and skills in social work, he strives to get the best possible results for clients who have been unjustly denied. He prides himself on being a strong advocate for those who feel they have no one in their corner, dedicating himself to ensuring the people who need and deserve benefits get them.

"Out 400-600 case closures, around 18% will be denied. It may seem like a small percentage, but in those denials are real people with real problems. They are at risk of losing their homes and going without lifesaving medical treatment. " - Rob Gilliken

Since 2003, Mr. Gillikin has handled over 7,000 disability claims cases, successfully representing clients before the Social Security Administration and in appeals to federal courts. He also works with hundreds of veterans who've been denied benefits from the VA get the help the deserve. Robs commitment to this area of law is cemented by the sheer number of applicants who desperately need an advocate fighting on their behalf. Regardless of his caseload, Rob meets with each client individually and remains an accessible and caring steward throughout the claims process.

His dedication to the local community doesn't stop at law; he also serves as a member and officer of the Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia, the West Ghent Civic League, and formerly with a number of non-profits such as the Southeastern Virginia Homeless Coalition. A true Virginian, Robert Gillikin hails from the beach but loves the Blue Ridge and is proud to call both the coast and the mountains home, often visiting his mountain cabin with his wife and two daughters. 

Team Gillikin
Susan Cynar
Susan Cynar
Paralegal
Tamara Dwyer
Tamara Dwyer
Paralegal
Education

BA 2000, Virginia Wesleyan College: Magna Cum Laude

JD 2003, School of Law, University of Richmond

Awards & Recognition

National Organization of Social Security Disability Advocates (NOSSCR)

National Organization of Veterans Advocates (NOVA)

Virginia Bar Association

Pennsylvania Bar Association

West Virginia Bar Association

Martindale Client Distinction Award

Martindale Client Distinction Award Published/reported cases:

  • Pieczynski v. Barnhart, 430 F.Supp.2d 503 (W.D.Pa. 2006)
  • State, ex rel. Crist v. Cline, 632 S.E.2d. 358 (W.Va. 2006)
  • Pickett v. Astrue, 895 F.Supp.2d 720 (E.D.Va. 2012)
  • Biller v. Colvin, 962 F.Supp.2d 761 (W.D.Pa. 2013)
  • Weitzel v. Colvin, 967 F.Supp.2d 1069 (M.D.Pa. 2013)
  • Bisceglia v. Colvin, 173 F.Supp.3d 326 (E.D.Va. 2016)
  • Krinjeck v. Saul, __ F.Supp.3d __ (W.D.Pa 2021)
  • Babyak v. Berryhill, 385 F.Supp.3d 426 (W.D.Pa. 2019)
In the Community

Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia

West Ghent Civic League

Formerly Southeastern Virginia Homeless Coalition

Formerly Virginia Wesleyan Alumni Council

Formerly Hampton Roads Pride

Formerly Sierra Club Chesapeake Bay Group

“There's a big difference between hiring a ‘claims advocate’ and hiring an attorney. Not only are we more knowledgeable of the law, but we roll up our sleeves and do the actual work of getting you a resolution. Many so-called ‘advocates’ will simply mail you a packet of claims forms. Getting my client the benefits they need to pay their bills, keep their homes, and feed their families is incredibly rewarding. ”

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