Though hiring an attorney for your Social Security case isn’t a requirement, it can make all the difference when it comes to being approved for benefits. When you consider the amount of paperwork, medical documentation and other information that needs to be collected, choosing to hire legal representation could significantly help your case. Not sure where to start with the process? Keep reading for our tips on choosing the best lawyer for Social Security disability.
What Does a Social Security Disability Lawyer Do?
Before we dive into how to choose a disability attorney, it’s important to understand what a Social Security lawyer does:
Initial Review – An attorney will review every detail of your case to ensure you’re completing all necessary actions for the best possible outcome, advising you during each step of the way. They will help you craft a strategy to help encourage your case’s success.
Compiling Medical Evidence – An attorney can help you review your records, determine the most pertinent information, obtain missing records, work closely with providers to obtain statements and medical options, and help develop the foundation of your claim.
SSA Communication – Disability attorneys communicate regularly with the Social Security Administration (SSA) on your behalf. It’s a complex process filled with deadlines and formalities. The SSA sees a huge volume of claims, so it helps to have a professional on your side to support your claim.
Filing Appeals – More than half of Social Security disability applications are initially denied, so working closely with an attorney can help you through the complicated appeals process.
Disability Hearing Representation – If your application is denied and you choose to appeal that decision, you will likely proceed to the hearing level with an administrative law judge. Having an attorney will ensure you’re totally prepared for the hearing.
Finding the Best Lawyer for Social Security Disability: What to Look For
If you choose to hire a lawyer for your Social Security disability case, there are some important factors to keep in mind when doing so to help ensure the best possible outcome. As you do your research, consider the following:
Range of Experience
Be sure to hire an attorney that not only specializes in Social Security disability but has had experience across the full spectrum of the disability application and appeals processes. The more experience a lawyer has in this realm, the better they’ll be able to curate your unique approach.
Thoughtful Strategy
When you have an initial consultation with an attorney, there will be many questions that come up about your claim. Make sure you ask about their plan for your case and how strategy will be handled – this can give you valuable insight into their experience and whether or not they are the right lawyer for your case.
Professionalism & Communication
Evaluate the level of professionalism you experience when speaking with a potential attorney. Though disability law firms are often busy, if you have the sense that there is a lack of contact or organization, it may be worth considering other options. There is a lot of paperwork involved in a disability case, so effective communication and a system for handling cases are essential to a positive outcome.
Glowing References
Testimonials are one of the best ways to determine whether you should hire a disability attorney. Asking others who have had the same experience or, if you don’t know anyone personally, reviewing a lawyer’s reviews, can give you a good sense of client satisfaction and what to expect.
Contact the Attorneys at Woodruff & Mathis
The attorneys at Woodruff & Mathis have more than 20 years of experience in Social Security disability law in Maine, bringing compassion and communication to each and every case. If you’re in need of the best lawyers for Social Security disability, please request an appointment to speak with us today.