What Does a Disability Attorney Do?

When dealing with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the disability claim process, many people wonder about the value of hiring a disability attorney. A Social Security disability lawyer can be a helpful ally. Here's how they can help.

Understanding the System

The Social Security Disability (SSD) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) programs are governed by rules and guidelines. Your disability attorney can clarify terms like "substantial gainful activity." An attorney can help you understand your work history's relevance in the claims process.

The SSA uses a five-step sequential evaluation process to determine disability. An attorney can walk you through each step. They'll explain the criteria the SSA will use. They'll help you anticipate what information you'll need.

Beyond medical conditions, the SSA considers factors like:

• Income
• Age
• Resources (especially for SSI claims)

Your attorney can help you understand these criteria.

Facilitating the Application Process

Many claims are denied due to incomplete or inaccurately filled initial applications. An attorney ensures that every detail aligns with the eligibility requirements of the SSA. This reduces the risk of unnecessary denials.

Before even beginning the application process, your attorney will review:

• All available medical records
• Work history
• Other relevant documents

This ensures that every piece of evidence supports your claim.

The SSA operates on strict deadlines. There are deadlines for:

• Submitting documents
• Appealing denials
• Other steps in the claims process

Your attorney ensures that every required action happens within the stipulated timeframe. This keeps your application on track.

Assembling Medical Evidence

Your disability attorney can help in gathering medical records and evidence. This emphasizes how your medical condition meets the SSA's impairment criteria. An attorney can detect bias in independent medical exams. This helps the chances that your medical evidence reflects your condition.

The SSA's "Blue Book" lists specific criteria for various impairments. Your attorney will match your medical evidence with these criteria. This shows how your condition aligns with the SSA's established guidelines for disability.

Sometimes, a medical condition might not fit into the SSA's predefined criteria. In such cases, your attorney can craft a compelling narrative. This narrative will be supported by medical evidence. It serves to prove that your condition, while not explicitly listed, is equivalently severe.

In some cases, your attorney might bring in expert witnesses, such as specialists or vocational experts. These experts can testify to the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work.

Handling the Appeals Process

If your disability claim is denied, your attorney guides you through the reconsideration phase. If necessary, your attorney will take your case to an administrative law judge for a disability hearing. These lawyers are versed in the appeals process up to the federal court. They can represent you before the appeals council.

The first step post-denial is understanding the reason behind it. Your attorney will review the SSA's explanation, identifying areas of contention or oversight. This ensures that the next steps in the appeal are focused and targeted.

Before proceeding to a formal hearing, there's the reconsideration phase. This is where another review of your claim is conducted. Your attorney ensures that any additional evidence or corrections are submitted. Your attorney will highlight the areas where the initial decision may have been flawed.

If reconsideration doesn't yield a favorable result, the next step is a hearing before an administrative law judge. Your attorney will prepare you for the hearing. They will help you rehearse potential questions. They will also ensure that your testimony is both truthful and persuasive.

During the hearing, your attorney will:

• Present your case
• Call upon and cross-examine witnesses
• Challenge any evidence presented by the SSA

This ensures that the proceedings remain favorable to your cause.

A seasoned disability attorney is also well-versed in previous rulings. These decisions can be used as precedents to strengthen your case. Your attorney will cite relevant cases where judges ruled in favor of claimants with similar conditions.

If the hearing doesn't go as planned, the next recourse is the Appeals Council. Your attorney can submit additional arguments or evidence. This evidence can emphasize why the administrative law judge's decision should be overturned.

In rare cases where all else fails, a claim might be escalated to a federal court. Here, the role of your attorney is even more critical. Your attorney will:

• Draft and present legal arguments
• Challenge the SSA's positions
• Advocate for your rights in a formal court setting

Ensuring You Receive the Right Benefits

Whether you're eligible for SSDI based on your work history or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to financial need, an attorney ensures you're applying for the right Social Security disability benefits.

SSDI and SSI, while both catering to disabled individuals, have different qualifying criteria. SSDI benefits are based on your work history. They're also based on the Social Security credits you've earned. SSI is need-based, helping those with limited income and resources. SSI also supports older adults who may not be disabled but have little income or resources. Your attorney will guide you about which program aligns with your circumstances.

Sometimes, individuals might qualify for both SSDI and SSI. In such cases, a disability attorney can guide you on how to apply for both. This ensures you receive the most benefits available to you.

Certain benefits can affect others. For instance, receiving workers' compensation might reduce your Social Security disability benefits. An attorney will advise on these nuances. This ensures that you don't jeopardize one benefit while pursuing another.

Receiving benefits isn't a one-time event. The SSA conducts periodic reviews to determine continued eligibility. Your attorney can provide guidance on these reviews. This ensures you continue to meet the requirements and keep your benefits.

Affordable Legal Representation

Some disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. You only pay attorney's fees if you win your case. Some even offer a free case evaluation. This allows you to understand the merits of your claim before moving forward.

Interacting with the SSA on Your Behalf

From filling out important documents to communicating with the local Social Security office, your attorney acts as your representative. They ensure all interactions are in line with your best interests.

This professional mediation often speeds up the process. It eliminates potential misunderstandings and bureaucratic hurdles. With their experience, they can anticipate and navigate the nuances of SSA communications. This provides you with an advantage and reduces the stress of direct negotiations.

Unique Qualifications

A reputable Social Security disability attorney possesses specific credentials. These include in-depth training on the SSA guidelines. It also includes an understanding of medical malpractice, personal injury, or workers' compensation. Their education and certification processes ensure they are well-prepared to handle disability cases.

Continuous professional development keeps them updated on evolving laws and practices. This enables them to provide clients with the most current and effective representation.

Do I Need a Disability Attorney for a Car Accident-Related Claim?

Yes. If your car accident results in a disability that impacts your ability to work long-term, a disability attorney can be helpful. While a car accident may lead to disability, the process of securing Social Security disability benefits is different from an auto accident claim. A disability attorney can guide you on merging these two processes if needed.

Will the Attorney Be Available Throughout the Whole Process?

Yes. From the initial application and potential appeals to hearings before an administrative law judge, your attorney will be by your side.

Get Legal Help for Your Disability Case

Handling the SSA and securing your rightful Social Security disability benefits can be a challenging task. But with a dedicated disability attorney in your corner, the journey becomes more manageable.

Before making a decision, check their experience. Understand their approach and make sure they're the best fit for your unique situation.