Disability lawyers are those attorneys who work to ensure that a claim for disability is approved. He or she may also work to obtain SSI or SSDI benefits for a client. Disability law is a complex field and many individuals find that hiring disability lawyers greatly increases their chances of obtaining approval on disability claims.
It is not uncommon for initial claims to be denied. Without disability lawyers, most clients would accept this verdict and attempt to manage on their own. In fact, even when claims are initially denied, appeals can be filed at several different levels. These appeals are best presented by legal professionals specifically trained in the area of disability law.
Applying for disability benefits, particularly for social security and SSI benefits may be an extended process. Attempted without the benefit of a legal advocate, this process can be difficult.
Readers may be surprised to learn that as many of 70 percent of initial disability claims are denied. Disability lawyers can often provide valuable assistance during each step of the claims and appeals process.
Denial of a claim is not necessarily a bad thing. A denial is a step towards a disability hearing where claimants often have a better chance of being awarded a claim. A denial leads to an appeal. In almost every instance, a disability lawyer is the person best prepared to take your case through the appeals process and to a hearing. Before a hearing, claimants have little chance to present evidence relating to their medical history and to their ability to perform work. At the hearing, the claimant (and his or her legal advocate) can respond directly to questions about their ability to work. This is the forum where they can address their work and medical history.
In most cases, disability lawyers do not get paid unless your claim is approved. Once your case has been won, the attorney may then be paid up to 25 percent of the amount of your back pay. The maximum amounts lawyers can be paid is $5,300.
When considering hiring an attorney, clients need to ascertain that the lawyer will promptly and properly appeal a denial. The attorney should thoroughly explain back pay requirements. This is particularly important since clients often receive information that seems to be conflicting. Attorneys should be willing to thoroughly explain his or her strategy regarding awards for the client’s particular medical problems. If the attorney is not forthcoming with this information, clients should ask pointed and direct questions. Finally, a good disability attorney will work to gather appropriate evidence to achieve an approval of the disability claim.
For most claimants, the claims process is unchartered territory. The Social Security Administration may ask that you be examined by one of their doctors. When this happens, a disability lawyer can advise you on the course to follow. They can also answer questions about Medicare and Medicaid benefits. Your family members may be entitled to receive benefits if your claim is approved. Disability lawyers can address these issues and provide important information. Since no fees are paid unless a claim is awarded, many individuals seek legal advice prior to filing a disability claim. Hiring a lawyer is a decision that should be made only after careful consideration. Before hiring an attorney to represent you in a disability claim, interview attorneys who have experience in disability law.