Disability lawyers specialize in helping individuals with ERISA and Social Security disability claims. Your attorney must have a history of success in fighting and winning such claims.
They should also understand the different ALJs that may review your claim and know which arguments to use to fight those biased against specific types of cases.
Experience
The first thing to consider when hiring a disability lawyer is their experience. It is a highly specialized field of law that requires extensive study and dedication to keep up with constantly changing federal laws and policies.
It is also important that the lawyer you hire exclusively litigates individual and group disability, insurance and ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) cases. A general practice attorney may need to be equipped to handle a case involving SSD or SSI benefits, as these claims are governed by the complex and ever-changing federal law known as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
An experienced disability lawyer can evaluate your claim quickly to determine your approval chances. They will also create a strategy to improve your approval odds at the hearing.
Fees
A disability attorney or advocate may also need to pay for other costs, such as obtaining medical records. This is allowed by Social Security as long as the representative does not front these costs to the claimant in advance.
Obtaining the right medical evidence is crucial to winning a case. A top disability attorney knows what to look for and can ensure all required medical documentation is submitted.
A disability attorney can help you by applying for and appealing a denied Social Security disability claim. They can ensure that all necessary information is included in your case and will be able to answer any questions you have about the process. In addition, they can increase your chances of success by helping you avoid common mistakes that many applicants make.
Reputation
If you’re seeking disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA), your attorney must have a strong and positive reputation. They should be able to demonstrate this through their past client results and accolades on their website.
An experienced lawyer knows how to assess your claim and improve its odds of success, particularly at the hearing stage, where an administrative law judge questions applicants about their medical condition. They can also ensure that irrelevant information is not submitted to the SSA.
They can also communicate with your doctor(s) to get important medical records that may be needed for your claim. This can reduce the number of times your case is referred back for review and denials.
Communication
During your search for the right disability attorney, you will likely be looking for an advocate that returns your calls and emails promptly. They should be willing to speak with you about your case and provide a free consultation.
They will be able to explain how your medical condition prevents you from working and help you understand what evidence will support your claim. They will also know what arguments will work best with the judge at your hearing.
Please ensure they exclusively litigate individual and group disability, insurance and ERISA claims. This area of law requires specialization and differs significantly from personal injury and other areas of law. This will help ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case correctly.
Personality
Suppose you will work with a disability attorney for a long time as you go through the Social Security disability claims process. In that case, the lawyer’s personality and their support staff must mesh well with yours. Personality traits such as openness, agreeableness, and extroversion can help build trust and communicate effectively, which you will need to win your claim. Ready to hire a disability lawyer?
No Comments