Andrea Velasquez | Associate Attorney
From Barasch & McGarry Law Firm
Has proven to be an invaluable support system for my Father’s 911 Court Case.
Her sensitivity and grace throughout this process in helping him Navigate and pull out memories he had buried away so long ago has really helped him tremendously and her approach in making sure he understood everything that was going on. Her genuine care and empathy for my Dad especially since he has signs of brain fog from the chemotherapy treatments he’s going through right has now made a huge difference in this experience.
Andrea’s professionalism and timely communication helped alleviate stress for him in this emotional process. It was such a Pleasure working with Andrea and I am deeply grateful for her service and how wonderful and patient she was with my Father throughout this entire process and I highly recommend her to anyone facing similar circumstances.
Georgia Miles, Claim Administrator at Barasch & McGarry
has been absolutely wonderful to work with. She is professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly efficient in handling the details of the claims process.
While we are still awaiting final resolution, Georgia has given us all the tools and guidance needed to move forward — from appointments to documentation and everything in between. She makes sure we understand each step and what to expect, which brings real peace of mind during what can otherwise be a very stressful time.
She is responsive, organized, and truly attentive to detail. You can tell she genuinely cares about her clients and works hard to ensure everything is handled properly and promptly.
We are very grateful for her support and highly recommend Georgia Miles and the team at Barasch & McGarry
I was injured during the rescue and recovery at The WTC on 911, and the months that followed. I filed with the VCF myself thinking I hadn't missed anything, but I sure did. Travis Carter found an error the VCF made in calculating my lost earnings, and was able to get me an additional 613,000.00. While I'd gladly give the money back in exchange for my lungs back I'm forever in Barasch & McGarry's debt. Thank you Travis!
We're glad to hear you had a great experience with our team. It means a lot to know we were able to support you with professionalism and care. Wishing you all the best.
Hi Ryan, We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your review. Supporting the 9/11 community is what we’re here for, and we’re glad we could be there for you. Wishing you all the best.
Bee Cee2025.12.05
Barasch & McGarry totally screwed up my case with incompetence and malpractice!! They have this “reputation” for being champions of the 9/11 victim community, but they totally dropped the ball with me!! The big problem with them is they are huge with thousands of clients and there in lies the problem - it becomes “death by committee” if you’re not on top of them and realize that you’ll never just deal with one lawyer but many, many different employees which helps dilute your personal relationship with the firm as well as your story and facts and if there is never one point person to make sure everything sent in on your behalf is correct, it’s pretty easy to have erroneous/incomplete documentation send in for your case. And, since I’ve been dealing with various cancer diagnoses over the past 4 years with surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy (that I’m still dealing with), I TRUSTED them to have my back and fight for me while making sure anything submitted was correct and didn’t actually hurt my case!! After dealing with many different lawyers, paralegals, assistants, etc. at Barasch & McGarry where one hand apparently didn’t know what the other was doing, they submitted incorrect, incomplete documents and even omitted correct documents that were necessary to prove my case on appeal such as they submitted a witness statement which stated that the witness didn't see me in the exposure zone, when in fact she did. They also failed to upload the statement from my only other witness!! The Victim’s Compensation Fund threw my whole case out because of mistakes like this, and with no opportunity for another appeal!! And when I asked the attorney who handled the appeals hearing what happened that they threw my case out, he just said cluelessly that this happens and we’re out of options - and then the ONLY way I found out about the truly lousy job they did was by immediately getting another lawyer who was able to get access to everything they sent to the VCF and was amazed at the incompetence he saw!! Even with this new lawyer, my case may still be dead and I’m screwed out of some money that would've truly helped me while I’m still fighting cancer and unable to work!! And what really kills me is that Michael Barasch, the head of the firm, goes on TV occasionally as an impassioned advocate for 9/11 victims, telling the world how much they fight for the 9/11 community, but I guess that didn’t include me. I really would love for him to contact me and explain to me how such a vaunted 9/11 related law firm could have screwed up my case so badly and let me down - I will be awaiting his call!! In the meantime, this is really a wake-up call for anyone else fighting 9/11 related illnesses that maybe sometimes a huge firm like Barasch & McGarry may not always have your back while your case gets lost in an abyss of assorted lawyers, clerks, secretaries, assistants, etc. - one more clueless about your case than the next!
I am the managing partner at Barasch & McGarry. I was deeply concerned and saddened to read about your health challenges and the difficulties that you have had convincing the Victim Compensation Fund that you are entitled to an award for any illnesses certified by the WTC Health Program. My firm's mission is to support the entire 9/11 community -- not just first responders. As you may know, I too am a member of the 9/11 community. I have been diagnosed with and certified by the WTC Health Program for two cancers. I lost two of my paralegals to 9/11 cancers. Another 5 members of my firm have 9/11 illnesses and over 2 dozen people at my firm have lost loved ones to 9/11 cancers. We remember when the EPA assured responders, downtown office workers, students and residents that the "air (was) safe". It wasn't! 69 cancers have now been linked to the WTC toxins.
My firm has been leading the advocacy efforts in Washington to convince Congress to fully fund the WTC Health Program. Without that funding, the Health Program won't be able to accept new patients after next year. Suffice to say, we take 9/11 personally.
I can appreciate how frustrating It has been for the WTC Health Program not to certify your cancers and/or for the VCF not to recognize that you are entitled to an award for your cancers. Normally, the only reason they refuse is because they require additional proof that you were in the exposure zone (south of Canal Street) and for the requisite amount of time. The good news is that you haven't waived your future rights. You can amend you claim anytime in the next 64 years---as soon as you find the requisite proof.
I would personally like to address your concerns and help you find the proof that you need. My firm is privileged to represent over 45,000 people who were exposed to the WTC toxins. We have helped hundreds of people in your situation by reaching out to other clients who worked at the same companies, and we were able to find witnesses to sign affidavits supporting their claims.
Please let us help you by accepting my invitation to email me directly at michael@baraschmcgarry.com. Kindly give me your name and cell # and I will call you to discuss how we can help you.
With deep respect,
Michael Barasch
Val Velazquez-Stetz2025.10.17
The best 9/11 Lawfirm in NYC! Michael Barasch cares for his clients. He is a survivor!
Thank you for all you have done for 9/11 responders and survivors!
Thank you for the kind words, Val. It is our privilege to help you and so many others get the justice they deserve. Wishing you all the best.
Stanley Wong2025.10.05
I am currently going through these guys to make a claim for the Victim's compensation fund.
It's been 6 months since a cancer diagnosis and 3 months since I've started the VCF process.
Early March, I sent in all the paperwork to Barasch & McGarry. They were quick on the draw to get me to sign all their forms, making all sorts of promises of helping me through this process.
I got them done and back to them quickly. Then I heard nothing for weeks.
I checked directly with the VCF registry and they still had NOT sent in my paperwork. They haven’t done anything!
I kept following up with this firm for weeks and weeks. Got the runaround and nobody answered our calls. Then they started ghosting me.
This was the last thing we wanted to worry about considering the situation.
I called the VCF fund again and they tell me these guys STILL haven't done anything.
UPDATE: I found another law firm to handle our case about 9 months into this ordeal. 5 months wasted with this firm. Do not make the same mistake we did. Our new lawyer took over our case and worked with us through the process step by step and was available for call or text. Never once did he let me go without an answer for a day.
From start to finish (we started all over again), our new lawyer got us on the VCF list and health visit in 6 weeks. There’s a 12-18 month wait after you get all your paperwork done. Barasch and McGarry wasted 6 months of our time.
And frustrating enough, like another review wrote here, they started getting aggressive harassing calls. The same day that we switched to another firm and they took over the case, these guys immediately started calling us 5 times a day.
Save yourself the trouble. Find someone else.
This is Michael, the managing partner at Barasch & McGarry. I was deeply concerned to read your review.
As you may know, I too am a member of the 9/11 community. I have been diagnosed with and certified by the WTC Health Program for two cancers. I lost two of my paralegals to 9/11 cancers. Another 5 members of my firm have 9/11 illnesses and over 2 dozen people at my firm have lost loved ones to 9/11 cancers. Suffice to say, we take 9/11 personally, and we take your feedback seriously.
I would like to personally address your concerns and better understand the details of your experience. Please accept my invitation to email me directly at michael@baraschmcgarry.com so that we can discuss this further.
Hi Alfanette, We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your review. Wishing you all the best.
MyKellann Maloney2025.09.06
I'm submitting this review to attest to the dedication and persistence shown to me by Barasch & McGarry.
The team took on my case approximately 5 years ago, and at that time they carefully detailed the process I would need to follow in order to seek any compensation for health related issues I sustained from exposure to the 911 site as a volunteer. They were transparent about the fact the process would potentially be a long one, although they indicated a core competency handling such cases and ultimately obtaining positive outcomes for people like me.
The team initially helped me understand all necessary items required for the gathering and submission of supporting information, and I was able to enter a comprehensive case for review. Despite my case being declined for VCF benefit at the outset, Barasch & McGarry help steward me through the appeal process.
The VCF reviewed the details of my case a second time at the request of Barasch & McGarry, and a final determination was made qualifying me for health care benefits due to my condition. As a cancer survivor I feel both validated and supported by the work Barasch & McGarry did on my behalf. The favorable post appeal ruling will enable me to get future care as a covered expense, and to look ahead with confidence.
I would recommend Barasch & McGarry to anyone feeling overwhelmed by the thought of starting a claim with the VCF. My case is proof they will advocate on your behalf (over the course of multiple years if needed) and that you can receive a favorable outcome to help deal with challenging circumstances you may be facing. It's notable to share that the firm displays a kind human touch as part of their service model.
During the process, Andrea Velasquez explained the appeal requirements in a way that really helped me declare the details of my case effectively. She exhibited great patience while working with me, and I felt she genuinely cared about helping lower my anxiety throughout. Andrea called me personally to relay the reversed VCF ruling and explain the mechanics of the result. We had a heartfelt exchange which I'll always remember.
My family and I are extremely grateful for our experience working with Barasch & McGarry, and we feel confident they will continue to support us if I have additional medical issues going forward. The firm and team have my sincerest heartfelt thank you.
MyKellann, Thank you for sharing such a detailed account of your journey with us. We know how long and taxing a five-year process can be, and it is a privilege to have stood by you. We are so happy to hear that Andrea Velasquez was able to provide the support and clarity you needed. Wishing you and your family all the best.
Leslie Làne2025.07.17
Throughout the 911 claim application process, the staff at Barasch and McGarry has been thorough, respectful attentive and kind.
Leslie, We're glad to hear you had a great experience with our team. It means a lot to know we were able to support you with professionalism and care. Wishing you all the best.
Sharon Arnette2025.05.21
Forever Grateful – They Saved My Life
There are no words powerful enough to express what attorney Andrea Velasquez, her incredible paralegal Melanie Aguiar, and the entire team at Barasch and McGarry have done for me and my family.
Because of their expertise, compassion, and relentless dedication, I received my VCF hardship expedite approval and full payment in just 45 days—a process that normally takes 18 months. That timing was everything. They didn’t just win a case—they saved my family, my home, my personal stability, and my business.
During one of the darkest chapters of my life, they stood with me, fought for me, and never once made me feel like “just another case.” They listened, they cared, and they moved mountains.
Because of them, I can breathe again. My family is safe. My business has a future.
If you are facing impossible odds, call them. They are not just lawyers—they are life-savers.
From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU !
Sharon…
Sharon, We are moved by your words. Knowing that we could help provide the stability you needed for your home and business means everything to us. Our team takes great pride in advocating for expedited results when our clients need them the most. We are so happy that Andrea Velasquez and Melanie Aguiar were able to give you peace of mind. Wishing you and your family continued strength and all the best.
DALIA NAUTA2025.04.29
Muy agradecida por todos sus servicios y el valioso tiempo. Gracias a Juana Bazan, Melinda Caicedo y la abogada Andrea Velasquez por su ayuda.
Dalia, Nos alegra mucho saber que tuvo una excelente experiencia con nuestro equipo. Para nosotros significa mucho saber que Juana, Melinda y Andrea pudieron apoyarle con profesionalismo y esmero. Le deseamos todo lo mejor.
Olga Jacome Jacome2025.04.28
Muchas gracias a los abogados de Barasch & McGarry, especialmente quienes trabajaron en mi Caso por el cual recibi mi compensacion hoy. Gracias Kennia, Miguel y la abogada Andrea Velasquez que me ayudaron mucho en mi caso. Los recomiendo mucho!
Olga, Muchas gracias por sus amables palabras. Para nuestro equipo, es un honor haberle acompañado en este proceso. Le deseamos todo lo mejor.
Lucy De Los Santos2025.04.06
Andrea Velasquez is very professional and courtesy. She kept pushing for the best result for me. Also took the time to answer all my concerns and always was available when I called. I highly recommend Andrea Velasquez and her office Barasch & McGarry.
Lucy, We're glad to hear you had a great experience with our team. It means a lot to know we were able to support you with professionalism and care. Wishing you all the best.
Sereeta Greene2025.04.01
I should've let them go the first year. They aren't diligent. I did their job for them and 4 years later they still didn't accomplish what was promised. I would call and my calls would be unresponsive. I hate people who dodge their job especially with my social in their possession so I would graciously walk into the office where you get 'everyone is working from home '... Everytime you walk in the office! Had 2 female lawyers (Saba- gave the wrong office number/ she's no longer there and I was uninformed for 2 years in calling and calling; Keesha- had 3 months on my case and gave her breadcrumbs to follow and lol (I did more then she did).
To be honest... Show me a minority that's went to this firm and have been a successful winner without getting the lesser pay!!! Because I've been reviewing, reading testimonials, speaking to real people and I'm not going to say what I know!
My brother didn't trust me to go to this firm. This is going to be an 'i told you so' well deserved. I'm just glad now I get to work with a firm that actually knows how to care about situations like this, knows what they are doing and how to get it done.
Review update: 03/31/2025... I've never received 3 phone calls in 1 days from this firm. Laughing out loud it wasn't they found evidence on their behalf it was to know why I left this review. Very bold toned pushy gentleman. I was so disgusted I told him why are you calling and your firm couldn't handle the case. Told him I couldn't speak and he insisted on calling back at a later date. I asked why and stated for 4 years I workedwith and waited for this firm to just drop the ball why would I allow him to bullying me into changing the truth! I hung up and guess what. He immediately called back twice. Oh so your harassing me now! I thought this was a legit law firm and your harassing me! Don't do it to your Barasch and Mcgarry!
This firm has sen multiple letters addressed to my dead father, claiming he as a right as a 9/11 victim. Do they just look for folks who died of cancer in NY? My dad was no where near the two towers when they fell, nor did he participate in the rescue efforts. Stop traumatizing my mother with your scam letters addressed to her dead husband
Devon, Please accept our deepest apologies for the distress these letters have caused your mother and your family. Unfortunately, public mailing lists can sometimes be inaccurate, and it was not our intent to intrude on your family's privacy.
To ensure this stops, we invite you to email us at marketing@baraschmcgarry.com with your father’s name and address. We will make sure he is permanently removed so your mother does not receive any further correspondence.
Ray Henderlong2025.02.19
Fantastic!!! Had bad experiences with attorneys but not this one. Highly recommend!!! Extremely knowledgeable, professional and personable. Thank you so much
Ray, We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your review. Supporting the 9/11 community is what we’re here for, and we’re glad we could be there for you. Wishing you all the best.
Daniel, We appreciate you taking the time to share your review. Supporting the 9/11 community is what we’re here for, and we’re glad we could be there for you. Wishing you all the best.
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