how to look for a social security disability attorney

by Clarabelle Stoltenberg 8 min read

Finding a disability attorney could consist of asking around for referrals, or conducting an internet search. As the disability legal practice is quite broad, there is likely to be ample listings of lawyers in different locations. If you have a disability, you could also be economically limited in your ability to pay for an attorney.

Searching for Social Security Disability Attorneys
  1. Ask people who have been through a similar process. ...
  2. Ask family members and friends. ...
  3. Ask lawyers you have an existing relationship with. ...
  4. Check with the local Bar Association.
Mar 27, 2020

Full Answer

How to find the Best Social Security lawyer?

Usually, a disability advocate or attorney receives 25 percent of your disability backpay – up to a maximum of $6,000.If you have a disability or severe ailment and you think you will be out of work for at least 12 months, get a free case evaluation today. When your claim is approved, you will receive backpay.

How to find a good disability lawyer?

Jul 05, 2017 · Check with your state bar to see if there is any history of disciplinary action against the attorney. Most importantly, interview them. Ask lots of questions about your case and choose the attorney you feel provides the most competent answers. How can I …

Should you hire a disability lawyer?

You've come to the right place. If you or someone you know is unable to work because of a long-term disability, and who may be eligible to receive social security disability benefits (SSDI) from the government, a social security disability lawyer can help. Use FindLaw to hire a local social security disability attorney near you to help guide you through the claims process, and resolve …

How can I get a disability lawyer for free?

A good firm should be willing, and able, to share their statistics. Office and Case Management Even though disability firms are busy places, you should be provided with a contact person who you can rely on to answer your questions. The firm should also keep in …

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What should you not say when applying for disability?

Making Statements That Can Hurt Your Claim – Unless you are specifically asked pertinent questions, do not talk about alcohol or drug use, criminal history, family members getting disability or unemployment, or similar topics. However, if you are asked directly about any of those topics, answer them truthfully.Mar 3, 2022

What are the chances of getting approved for disability?

On average, 35% of claimants get approved on the first application, 10% get approved if they appeal a denial of their application which is called a reconsideration, and approximately 50% get approved during an Administrative Law Judge hearing.

What is the most approved disability?

Arthritis and other musculoskeletal disabilities are the most commonly approved conditions for disability benefits. If you are unable to walk due to arthritis, or unable to perform dexterous movements like typing or writing, you will qualify.Dec 16, 2021

How can I increase my chances of getting disability?

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Disability BenefitsFile Your Claim as Soon as Possible. ... Make an Appeal within 60 Days. ... Provide Full Details of Medical Treatment. ... Provide Proof of Recent Treatment. ... Report your Symptoms Accurately. ... Provide Medical Evidence. ... Provide Details of your Work History.More items...•Oct 20, 2019

Do you have to work with a disability lawyer before?

You may not have worked with a disability lawyer before, but you may have a previous relationship with a lawyer of another specialty, such as a real estate or divorce attorney. If you do, it would be a good idea to ask that lawyer for a reference. Most attorneys will be more familiar with other lawyers’ work than the general population, even if they are in different specialties.

Who is the best person to ask for recommendations?

The best people to ask for recommendations are people who have been in a similar situation to the one you are in. These individuals understand what you are facing and will be able to help you find the right advocates and resources.

What are the requirements to become a non-attorney advocate?

The requirements for becoming a non-attorney advocate are as follows: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience; Clean criminal background; Professional liability insurance; Successful completion of SSA-administered exam; and. Continuing education.

Why is communication important in choosing a lawyer?

Communication is also an important factor when choosing a lawyer. Your attorney should be responsive and keep you apprised of each new development throughout the process —and there will be many. When your lawyer is distant or hard to reach, it may be difficult to keep confidence in them.

What is a non-attorney advocate?

This is a person who has not been to law school or passed the bar exam, but is legally qualified to represent you at a Social Security disability hearing. The requirements for becoming a non-attorney advocate are as follows:

What is a disability lawyer?

Your Social Security Disability (SSD) lawyer helps you get the maximum disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). An attorney gathers evidence, submits paperwork, and constructs your claim so it has the greatest chance of a favorable outcome. Once the SSA makes a final decision on your case, ...

Can an attorney appeal a claim?

Attorneys adhere to stricter professional conduct rules and face disciplinary action and even disbarment for not upholding stringent ethical standards; Attorney-client privilege laws ensure anything you tell your lawyer remains confidential; Attorneys can appeal your claim to an even higher court if the need arises.

Is it reasonable to expect a disability lawyer to be busy?

It is reasonable to expect a disability lawyer to be busy. However, it should not be overly difficult to reach your attorney. If a lawyer does not promptly return calls or emails when you are a prospective client, it is unlikely to get better after you sign a fee agreement.

Can a lawyer appeal a Social Security claim?

Attorneys can appeal your claim to an even higher court if the need arises. Non-attorney advocates have no standing beyond the Social Security system. When you hire an attorney, you get more knowledge, experience, and legal capabilities for the same fee.

Chose an Attorney

Social security allows non-attorneys to represent “claimants” (those applying for disability benefits) before the Social Security Administration. It’s best though to choose an attorney who can best assist you in understanding your disabilities and how those will be applied to the disability regulations.

Accessibility

Never chose social security representation that you cannot meet and work with before they handle your appeal or represent you at a hearing. Here at Arthur Law disability consultations are free, and you will meet with and discuss your case with the attorney who will handle your case.

Professionalism

How a lawyer handles your questions and concerns is a significant factor in having a positive experience and successful result in your case. You want to have the proper attention for your case and someone explaining how the system works and what you should expect.

Proper Management Skills

At Arthur Law Firm, we have the support staff to assist the lawyers in organizing your case and submitting information. You should be able to know and speak with the individuals who are handling your case. When you’re asking them questions, it’s also the perfect time to learn their process and methods.

Experience

Many lawyers are available, but few practice enough before Social Security to know the in’s and out’s of administrative laws. Even with a good lawyer, not having enough knowledge can lead to them mishandling your case. You want someone who has the training and experience beforehand to know what to do and also what to avoid doing.

High Approval Rate

Check out the public posts on the firm or attorney you are looking into. What have their other clients said about how they work and perform?

Get Professional Legal Help in Your Social Security Disability Case

The Social Security disability team at Arthur Law is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.

What does a good attorney do?

A good attorney will give you an honest assessment of your case only after reviewing the facts. A good attorney will also admit that he or she probably can't get you approved any faster than you could on your own. Here is a sample question you should ask and a sample answer a good attorney should give you:

Does Nolo have a disability license?

Nolo has confirmed that every listed attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with their bar association.

Do disability firms keep in touch?

Even though disability firms are busy places, you should be provided with a contact person who you can rely on to answer your questions. The firm should also keep in touch with you on a regular basis. Here are some questions you should ask to get an idea of how your case will be handled:

Can you speak to a disability attorney?

Don't be put off if you can't speak to the attorney the first time you call, or if you are asked to speak to a staff member for help with a question. This is because experienced disability attorneys spend most of their time in hearings and rely on their staff to field calls. However, a good firm should allow you to schedule a free consultation ...

Can a disability firm accept children's cases?

Not all disability firms will accept children's cases, and those that do may not have much experience with them. If you are filing on behalf of a child, make sure that the firm you deal with has experience with childhood disability questions.

Does Nolo have a valid license?

The profiles tell you about the lawyer's disability experience, education, and fees, and perhaps most importantly, the lawyer's general philosophy of practicing law. Nolo has confirmed that every listed attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with their bar association.

Do lawyers represent Social Security?

First and foremost, ask if the lawyer has experience in winning disability claims for your medical condition. Typically, most lawyers who represent Social Security disability applicants are fairly busy, due to the large number of disability claims moving through the system.

Do I need a lawyer for an appeal?

But for an appeal to the Appeals Council, you'll definitely want to hire a lawyer. And since you'll pay a lawyer and a nonlawyer representative the same amount, it can make sense to hire a disability lawyer from the start.

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