NYPD Medical Disqualification Appeals

Receiving a medical disqualification from the NYPD doesn’t have to end your path to becoming a police officer. The Law Offices of Robert B. Kronenberg is a premier NYPD disqualification appeal lawyer specializing in these complex cases. 

As a retired NYPD Captain, Mr. Kronenberg uses his firsthand knowledge of the job's physical demands to build powerful, evidence-backed appeals that give qualified candidates the best chance to protect their careers. We have a deep focus on handling complex NYPD medical disqualification appeals.

If you received a medical disqualification notice, you have a limited time to act. Contact our law office now to understand your appeal options.

What Is an NYPD Medical Disqualification?

An NYPD medical disqualification is a determination by the department that a candidate has a health condition that prevents them from safely performing the essential duties of a police officer. This decision is based on standards outlined in the NYC civil service and NYPD medical screening procedures. A successful appeal must provide compelling medical evidence to prove you are fit for duty.

What Conditions Commonly Trigger Medical Disqualifications?

The NYPD may disqualify candidates for a wide range of conditions affecting vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, or orthopedic function, even if those conditions are well-managed. These are some of the most common medical disqualifications for police. You can read more about what to expect during these evaluations in our guide to medical screenings for police officers.

Please note: This is not an exhaustive list, and other conditions can lead to disqualification. These are simply some of the most common we see.

• Vision: Failing to meet the standard of less than 20/100 uncorrected vision or not having it correctable to 20/30 in each eye. Color vision deficiencies are also a common issue.
• Hearing: Failure to meet specific decibel loss thresholds during the medical exam, although some hearing aids may be permitted.
• Cardiovascular: High blood pressure (often 140/90 or higher) or an abnormal EKG reading during the medical examination.
• Orthopedic: A history of significant back, shoulder, or knee injuries, especially those requiring surgery or that have ongoing treatment needs.

If you have one of these conditions or fear another medical issue may sink your candidacy, contact us now. A proactive strategy is the best defense.

Our Legal Process for Medical Disqualification Appeals

Our appeal process for NYPD medical disqualification appeals is a comprehensive legal strategy designed to prove your fitness for duty. We analyze your Notice of Proposed Disqualification (NOPD), guide you in obtaining new expert medical documentation, and file a persuasive appeal with the New York City Civil Service Commission on your behalf.

Step 1 — In-Depth Review of Your NOPD

The process begins with a meticulous review of your Notice of Proposed Disqualification (NOPD). As your NYPD medical disqualification lawyer, Mr. Kronenberg will analyze the specific medical reasons cited by the NYPD to identify the exact standard you failed to meet and build a targeted rebuttal strategy.

Step 2 — Gathering Compelling Medical Evidence

We guide you and your specialist doctor on the specific tests and documentation needed to prove your condition is stable, well-managed, and does not interfere with your ability to perform the duties of the job. This new medical documentation is the key to a successful appeal.

Step 3 — Filing a Powerful and Timely Appeal

We combine your new medical evidence with a strong legal argument. This package is submitted to the Civil Service Commission, arguing that the initial decision was a "manifest error" under the law.

Step 4 — Escalating to an Article 78 Proceeding

If an administrative appeal is denied, we are prepared to file an Article 78 proceeding. This is a formal lawsuit filed in the New York State Supreme Court that asks a judge to review the agency's decision. We argue that the disqualification was "arbitrary and capricious," meaning it was not based on facts or law. This is a powerful tool for challenging a final police medical disqualification.

This complete, step-by-step management ensures that every aspect of your case is handled with the expertise required for successful NYPD medical disqualification appeals.

How to Get Started on Your Appeal

Attorney Robert Kronenberg is an experienced attorney who helps applicants who want to enter the New York City Police Department, the New York City Correction Department, or the Nassau County Police Department with psychological, character, and complex NYPD medical disqualification appeals.

By partnering with an attorney like Mr. Kronenberg, you receive services that significantly increase your chances of a successful disqualification appeal.

This firm is dedicated to handling all types of disqualification cases. Our deep experience with the NYC Civil Service process and our understanding of what it takes to become a police officer in New York provide a distinct advantage. If you have been medically disqualified, we are here to help. 

Contact us online today to learn more about your options.

Frequently Asked Questions About NYPD Medical Disqualifications

What Are Some General Police Exam Disqualifiers?

Disqualifiers can arise at any stage. They include failing the written civil service exam, not meeting physical fitness standards, or failing the psychological evaluation. Background checks can also uncover disqualifying factors like a criminal record, and you can learn more about how deep background checks go. These are handled as character disqualification appeals.

How Is a Medical Disqualification Different From a Psychological One?

A medical disqualification is based on objective physical standards. A psychological disqualification, however, is based on the more subjective findings of your psychological evaluation. Both require different types of expert evidence to successfully appeal.

Can You Be a Cop With High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure can be a disqualifier, particularly if it is not well-controlled. If your condition is effectively managed through medication and a doctor confirms you can handle the job's physical demands without risk, you may successfully appeal a disqualification. The key is providing definitive medical proof.

Is Anxiety Considered a Police Disqualifier?

Anxiety is typically addressed during the psychological evaluation, not the medical exam. However, if it manifests in a physical way (like high blood pressure), it can be a factor. Severe, unmanaged anxiety can lead to a psychological disqualification, but a well-managed condition is often not a disqualifying factor.

Yes. A detailed report from your treating specialist that is tailored to address the NYPD's standards is the most powerful evidence you can have. This documentation is the cornerstone of all successful NYPD disqualification appeals.

If you are a candidate for a law enforcement civil service position experiencing a disqualification in the New York City Police Department (NYPD), New York City Correction Department (NYCD), NASSAU County Police Department (NCPD), or any law enforcement agencies, call the law office of Robert B. Kronenberg for the representation necessary for a disqualification appeal based on your individual case needs.

When faced with a medical disqualification, you deserve to be treated with respect and to be represented by an experienced disqualification attorney. Contact us today at 631-234-4434.