Filing for SSDI or SSI benefits can be a confusing and complicated process. Most applicants don’t know how to fill out the paperwork or submit documentation properly, which is a primary reason why 65% of disability claims are denied. 

Although having a lawyer isn’t necessary during the application process, hiring one can do wonders for improving your chances of a successful claim. In fact, statistics have shown that the SSA is more likely to approve someone who is represented by an attorney. 

Below are a few of the ways a disability lawyer can help your case, and bring you some peace of mind. 

1. They understand what medical evidence is needed to win. During the application process, applicants are required to submit medical evidence to support their disability. Unfortunately, a lot of applicants struggle to provide the right information; giving too much irrelevant information and not enough of the information that matters. A disability lawyer understands what the SSA looks out for, and will be able to help you gather and organize your medical records accordingly. They’ll be able to put your documents in a logical, efficient order, which will save the judge time from flipping through unnecessary information.
2. They have a better chance of getting in touch with doctors. Unfortunately, it can be difficult for patients to get in touch with doctors these days. They’re busy people with big priorities, and gathering medical records for your claim may not be at the top of their priority list. Hiring a disability lawyer to contact them for you is proven to be more effective in receiving feedback. They know the right questions and concerns to bring up, and how to develop trusting relationships with medical professionals.
3. They know how to navigate the hearing process. Going into a hearing alone can feel intimidating and nerve wracking. Having a disability lawyer by your side will help put you at ease. They have the skills and extensive knowledge necessary to win your case, and jump over hurdles you might not have been able to do on your own. Because the lawyers are familiar with all the judges in their district, they’ll be able to cater their efforts knowing how each one operates. They’ll be able to confront and explain any “bad facts” from your medical records, and frame them in a way that is favorable to you. A disability lawyer will also train you on how to respond to questions from the vocational experts (experts hired by the SSA that appear at the hearing), and how to counter any negative testimony.
4. They can pinpoint which argument to hone in on. There are numerous “selling points” during the hearing. Once the lawyer can get a gauge on the judges sentiment, they can hone in which aspects of the case are worth capitalizing on. For example, the lawyer may discover that the vocational expert (VE) improperly used the applicant’s past work to determine whether there were still jobs the applicant could do. That small crack opens up the door for the lawyer to push that point and potentially win your case. 

In need of a disability lawyer? Disability Associates has you covered! We provide legal representation to disabled individuals seeking SSDI or SSI benefits. And bonus, there is absolutely no charge unless we win your case! Contact us online today, or give us a call at (410) 686-2227.