How Can a Social Security Attorney Help Me?

How Can An Attorney Help Me?

When you or a member of your family becomes disabled, the financial hardships imposed can seem overwhelming. The loss of income of a wage earner, the expenses of ongoing medical treatment, and concerns about everyday living expenses for your family are just a few examples of the worries you may experience.

Social Security disability benefits can be a viable solution.

While you might know that legal help is available when applying for disability with the Social Security Administration (SSA), you may not know whether consulting an attorney is really necessary.

To aid in your decision, here are just a few of the ways in which a disability lawyer’s knowledge and expertise can help you and your family:

Understanding the Disability Process

An attorney can provide guidance to you throughout the disability process. They can help you understand the SSA’s disability programs, how you may qualify, and whether other family members are eligible for dependent benefits.

A lawyer that deals with disability claims on a regular basis is very familiar with the SSA’s system and can potentially help you obtain an approval.

Gathering Evidence and Documentation

A disability claim must be backed up with substantial medical and other records. An attorney can advise you on the evidence necessary and can assist with gathering documentation to support your claim for benefits.

If there are physicians ‘s offices of others that drag their feet in submitting evidence to the SSA for review, your lawyer can step in and ensure their compliance.

Advocating for You and Your Family

Disability applications can be delayed for a variety of reasons. Although sometimes a delay is unavoidable, in other instances, it is just that your application has become bogged down somewhere along the line.

An disability attorney familiar with the disability review processes knows when and where to call or write to get your claim moving again.

Dealing with Denials and Appeals

When you apply for disability, there is always a chance you will be denied. If you receive a denial notice, your attorney can help you request a second review of your claim, if appropriate, and can file an appeal on your behalf, if necessary.

He or she is also accustomed to appearing in court before an administrative law judge, which is part of the appeals process.

Having legal representation can make the appeal hearing less intimidating and your attorney will be there to look after the best interest of you and your family.

Consulting an Attorney

Disability attorneys often offer the initial consultation meeting free of charge. They also work on contingency, which means they get paid only if you are approved for disability.

Fees for services vary but there are limits under Social Security law placed on the percentage or total amount a Social Security lawyer can charge, so you know up front exactly what kinds of legal costs you will incur.