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30 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I would recommend Tom Mr Farrell and his team to anyone. Very gracious,knowledgeable, kind and considerate. His experience dealing with issues such as mine is remarkable. He takes care of every need and problem that may arise. I can not say how pleased I am with his representation.
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14 Dec, 2017 by Robert
Mr. Ferrell was amazing, specific, professional, courteous and most important in today's world trustworthy. If he says it will get done it does.His staff is wonderful and helpful. I would put my claim in no one else's hands.
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10 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Velma was excellent. I met her at my SS hearing for the first time. It was as if I know her for many years. She did a fine job representing me and my case. In the end I was found fully favorable including three years prior. Thank you Velma!!
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27 Feb, 2019 by Lori
Extremely caring and qualified. I was honored to have her represent me! She helped me throughout the entire process. Miss Velma Jones made me feel respected and cared about.
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19 Dec, 2019 by Rodney
Very good lawyer and did me a great job I am very thankful for Kate and Ortiz Law Firm would recommend to anyone.
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02 Aug, 2019 by Kerri
Kate Hauser really cares for you as a person. The staff is wonderful and everyone, including, Ms. Hauser, is timely with your paperwork and submissions. She was successful in winning my LTD and my SSDI.
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22 Apr, 2016 by Cheyanne seal
Barbara has inside knowledge of our SSD processes since she use to work there processing SSD Claims. This alone would make her a highly desired attorney but there is more. Did I mention she is also a Licensed Physician? Because of her background she is able to fully interpret a client's medical records in greater depth; therefore, having a fuller understanding of a client's limitations and disabilities. She will work night and day on a client's file because she knows all to well the hoops that SSD makes you jump through. With that being said, Barbara is a 5 star top notch attorney who will fight for your disability benefits like no other. If you want to win your disability case then give her a call, you won't be disappointed!
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10 Dec, 2014 by Vanessa
Not only was Mrs. Abrams knowledgeable, she was comforting, and empathetic towards my situation. I could email her day or night and she always responded in a timely manner. Upon meeting her I felt that I had made the right decision by choosing her, I immediately felt at ease, she was very knowledgeable about my condition so I felt validated as well. She has been wonderful! I had a favorable decision regarding my case within 2 months.
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20 Nov, 2015 by Jennifer
I would highly recommend anyone looking for an excellent attorney to work with Josh. He is approachable, personable, dedicated, and forthright and has helped me understand the complexities of my case every step of the way.
Josh is always available to speak with me personally and to return my emails. I know what a rarity that is in today’s world given the horror stories I have heard from friends and family and their own attorney/client experiences and interactions. I am so very fortunate to have Josh in my corner!
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31 Jul, 2015 by M.t.
Mr. Chilson handled my personal injury case. After the first two years of my case not moving much, Mr. Chilson took over the case and began to get the results we were looking for. He always kept us informed of the status of our case and never left any questions unanswered. Mr. Chilson made accommodations for our work schedules and called us at a time that was convenient for my husband and I to be together each time we spoke with him. I would definitely recommend him to all my friends and family. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Raul
i was so nervous about what to do after my heart attack, but Amy really took me seriously and guided me the whole way. I couldn't be happier with my experience. Thank you amy!!
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01 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Amy was able to guide me through a legal motion that was filed against myself. She was thorough in explaining my options to help me successfully resolve the motion. Her guidance was thorough and patient. She took the time to explain all the legal jargon that takes time for a non professional to understand. When necessary I look forward to working with her again. A true professional.
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21 Mar, 2018 by Elisa f.
The attorney represented me when my small business (day care center) was involved in a workers comp lawsuit and the employee was not our employees. She made sure we were aware of all the legality and took time to explain everything in our language. We were pleased with the result at the end of the trial.
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20 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Masson was very attentive to my concerns and made sure I understood the entire process, which may be confusing as far as what I was entitled to do as a business owner when dealing with injured employees. I would recommend her services to my friends, business partners and family.
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22 Aug, 2021 by Andrew
I was in law enforcement for 21 years when I needed to find a reputable and knowledgeable attorney, due to a complex Worker's Comp issue. Attorney Amie DeGuzman from our first meeting the took the time to listen to my needs and issues and in my opinion treated me not as a client, but someone she sincerely wanted to help find justice.
My case was complex to say the least and Worker's Comp was not making it any easier during the process. Attorney DeGuzman immediately started dealing with Worker's Comp as well as my employer, who had all but left me in the wind after 21 years of service and really would not convey any reliable information. Amie would call to check on me during this time and give me periodic and detailed updates to my case. Attorney Deguzman was eventually able to get me what was owed when Worker's Comp was trying to use stall tactics and misinformation throughout the process to deny my claim.
At my 22 year mark in law enforcement the Florida Retirement System granted me an "In the Line of Duty" retirement. Although I would have loved to continue working; however my situation would not allow it, due to my overall health deteriorating. Amie not only represented me during my Worker's Comp case she was also there for my "Line of Duty Retirement."
I'm still in the process of dealing with Worker's Comp, but having Amie by my side and the law firm of "John J. Rahaim II @www.jaxlegalhelp.com" representing me helps ease the anxiety and stress which gives me a sense of relief while I endure this arduous process. To date; some 2 years later Amie still calls on a regular basis to give updates on my case and on a personal note to check on my overall health (what attorney would take the time out of their day to do that?)
Even though I am still in the process of dealing with this case I would unequivocally recommend Amie DeGuzman. She is knowledgeable, loyal, forthcoming with information and truly shows compassion and empathy for her clients; which you typically do not get out of your average attorney.
Amie and John thank you for your service!!!!!
Do your research, but definitely reach out to (www.jaxlegalhelp.com) if you are wanting to not feel like a number or just a nobody. John and Amie both having been nothing short of amazing during this process.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Mac
Ms. DeGuzman of the Law Offices of John Rahaim assisted in representing me in connection with a workman’s comp claim. She is very professional and knowledgeable in the field of workman’s comp issues. Ms. DeGuzman assisted with my deposition and made sure I was aware of what was going on throughout the case. Ms. DeGuzman showed compassion and concern for her client. Ms. DeGuzman was always quick to follow up with any questions or concerns I had.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Tony
Matthew took the time to let me ask all the questions I needed. He gave me a lot of useful advice. I plan to have Matthew handle my financial planning needs in the future.
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09 Jan, 2017 by Jacqueline
I have consulted with Matthew several times regarding tax and financial issues. I have found him to be extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Every time I meet with Matthew I come away having learned something new. Matthew is incredibly patient and takes the time to break things down and explain them step by step. Matthew is an excellent attorney and I would not hesitate to recommend him.
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20 Nov, 2018 by Jill
Dane Heptner was there for me every step of the way with my personal injury case, helping me with every question I had, calling me back with minimal delay and working very hard to cross every t and dot every i. I enjoyed talking to Dane every time we spoke. His kindness and sense of humor were very much appreciated. I had over $58k in medical bills that he reduced to less than $7k. Dane saved the day during negotiation multiple times in several different creative ways. If you need a passionate, caring lawyer with a heart, creative mind and raw talent for knowing exactly what to say at exactly the right time to win your case, Dane Heptner is the lawyer you need fighting for you.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Jim
I had let my personal injury case linger and several attorneys told me it wasn't a very valuable case. Dane Heptner turned it around and got me over $50,000.00! Great job Dane! I recommend Dane Heptner to anyone with a personal injury case.
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11 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
After 18 years combined federal service between active-duty military and federal civil service, my health military service-connected health conditions quickly began deteriorating, making it quite difficult for me to remain productive and reliable in my current job. But at only 46 years of age, I knew early FERS retirement wasn’t an option for me yet with my current employer. After contacting attorney Barszcz; however, I quickly learned that I had hope … that disability FERS retirement would be an option for me based on my conditions and my time in service. Attorney Barszcz was very attentive, professional, and patient with me during my initial consultation and has been in in every subsequent phone conversation from there on forward. Attorney Barszcz was quickly able to assess my circumstances at the beginning seeing a potential positive outcome to my situation and was able to thoroughly advise me on how to proceed with the application. And boy, was he right! After moving forward with my application, having him represent me throughout my entire OPM FERS disability retirement process, I was able to get an approval with the initial submission just 6 months later! Attorney Barszcz was always able to give me an answer to all of my questions and always responded in a timely manner. Thank you, attorney Barszcz. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without your help!
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07 Nov, 2013 by Abid
Hi Mr. Barszcz:
I am extremely grateful to you regarding your honest response, professional integrity and high ethical standards unlike many other attorneys who asked for fees ranging up to $5000. One of them took $2000 from me and billed me for approximately $1500 within three days and then wrote
to me in his email that he has been frustrated with OPM as usual dealing with their bureaucracy while trying to contact OPM to inquire about the status of my case, and strongly recommended me to contact my congressional representative asking them to intercede with OPM to expedite
processing my case, as they are frequently very helpful in getting OPM’s attention.
I am already under such financial and mental distress that I can’t describe.
I have contacted local congressman and senator and also two accountants are helping me to put together a response. The accountants found big flaws in two letters that I received from OPM. I probably never sent you the second letter dated 10/25/13, where now OPM claimed that pay for my position in 2011 was $162,343 and not $120,343, and the 80% income limitation was $129,874 and not $96,274 as previously stated in their first letter dated 7/3/13. But they are now telling me that the income that I made was not $96,949 but $163,809, so I am still over and have terminated my disability as of last year June 2012. The Social Security on the other hand has already issued me a letter dated 10/23/13 with my new earned income as $89,187, and my accountants can’t figure out how OPM got to the figure $163,809.
So I am now going through the Congressman/Senator. I hope this is resolved soon.
I am sorry to have taken your time again, but I couldn’t resist to appreciate your honesty and high moral standards. My father was an attorney back in my home country, Pakistan and he held such high standards as you did and you just reminded me of him. I truly became tearful thinking
of him when I was reading your email. He had passed away in 1979.
I salute you for who you are …..
I wish I could post this on either your website or some blog place so people can see what an incredible human being you are !!!
Thank you very much for your advice.
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23 May, 2022 by Johnna
My experience with Anna Roush was absolutely outstanding. Anna gathered and sorted through hundreds of pages of documentation and prepared my case using facts and medical records. She was always ahead of all deadlines and kept me apprised of the status along the way. I knew that Anna was doing everything in her power to prepare the best case possible and I never had to worry at any point along the way that something might be missed. Her depth of social security disability knowledge along with her skills and attention to detail make her a valuable asset to have on your side. Thanks to Anna's efforts we received a favorable ruling on my SSDI claim.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Susan
Ms Roush was recommended to me buy my neurologist. At a point in my life where I was very ill and faced with having to fight for Social Security disability. In a very trying time, Ms Roush was a tireless champion for myself and my family. She made the filing process as painless as possible and was always willing to answer all my questions. She was very prompt in returning calls and emails. Anyone looking for an attorney to handle a disability claim should hire Anna Roush! She is the absolute best! We filed in the summer and I was awarded Social Security disability in December.She is the perfect blend of compassionate to client, and tough when fighting for your benefits. My family and I are so grateful for her services. Because when you are sick or suffering, worrying about fighting Social Security is the last thing you need
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27 Nov, 2016 by Cynthia
I give kudo's to such a fine Attorney as Ms. Moscato. She is grounded and truly committed to taking care of all your need and at the same time making sure you understand every legal avenue you can take. Ms. Moscato made every step of my legal problems go smoothly and stress free.
Sincerely Thankful that I used
The Law office of Allison Moscato
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24 Jun, 2013 by Peter
Miss Moscato was very knowledgeable in her field. And even though I know that she had dozens more cases that she was working on, she always took the time to answer my many questions in a timely manner. And she always managed to make me feel like I was her top priority at that time. It's very rear today to find an attorney who takes the time to work with you one on one.
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24 May, 2013 by Michael
After being dropped by multiple attorneys because of a complicated case relating to my SSDI Appeals, Ms. Wilburne and the staff assured me that they would do everything they could to resolve my denial. She informed me of the good, the bad, and the ugly. All of my calls were returned by the next business day and the staff always had an answer.... If they didnt know it they would have joanne follow up with me directly. I would def. recommend this atty to anyone who was ready to give up like I was.
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06 Jan, 2011 by Dee
I was referred to the Law office of Joanne Wilburne 2 years ago, and am thankful I was. She and her staff are extremely professional and competent to handle any and all your needs. They are both reassuring and caring that the job will get done and done right. Joanne, is the best laywer I have ever dealt with. This is not a processing plant, where the attorney does not know you, but rather, they handle each case individually. I had come to Joanne at a time where I had been denied SS Disability, and another practice did not follow appeal in time, so I brought Joanne a huge MESS, but, she dealt with it, and handled it all in a timely and professional manner. Honestly, like I have said to her and her staff, who would ever go thru this process alone, this is the best choice anyone can make, and worth the call. I would recommend Joanne to my family and friends. Am sincerly thankful.
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08 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Paid a small fee for a hour consult. he started digging in and started making some calls on my behalf. I got my moneys worth for sure because we spent 2.5 hours just making timelines and reviewing the case in that order. By the next morning he typed up a paper on my behalf without my files or notes and faxed it. Within 2 hours he had my issue resolved and i got exactly what i asked for. He is super smart and cunning at the same time. Great guy he actually cares he will have back to back appt. but he still squeezes u in if u need his expertise on the fly to meet that timeline.
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17 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Dave is a meak, small, mild mannered, sensitive, concerned and highly sympathitic, good guy to those that he decides to defend.. He also can be and is very strict, hard, rough and caringless to those he opposes. He is far beyond entirerly dedicated to defending the citizens and is entierly dedicated to prosecuting the guilty. Meaning that he is only entirerly dedicated to LAW. However, make no mistake about it HE ONLY WISHES TO TAKE CASES THAT HE HIMSELF DECIDES THAT HE WILL OR WILL NOT WANT TO TAKE. He lives continuesly under a gavel and is always,always,always, in court (exspecially spiritually) even in many cases ( that go on for a lifetime and sometomes longer) that are not his and that he wishes that they never would summons him too. He never seems to complain too much about theses summoning however and is not a liar. Dave is dedicated and so entirerly over worked (expecially spirtitually) with the courts and with peoples lives that that he must be an angle ( weather he's proven that in court before or not, well ). However unfortunely he's hardly ever paid as much as a human being for any or all of his never ending spiritual and mortal law work. This sometimes plays good to an authoritive power (the court) unto a jury controlled by female attorneys and judges because there are so many female attorneys and judges that are involved in the court system theses days. During this review they ask you how many lawyers have you worked with in the past to which the answer was 10 or more and let me tell you one thing thats for real and thats true. Out of them 10 attorneys not one of them ever did anything whatsoever for anybody whatsoever, were not truthfull, were never concerned with any thing whatsoever that had to do with the public, the people,The Constitution or The LAW or any thing else what so ever except their own self esteam, how good they could get in with or how good they were in with the judges and how much money they could steal from The Government or the people that they aleadgedlly defended. Daves been an attorney for quite awhile and I'm not sure if he's retired completelly yet or not. However, Good Luck Dave.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Les
I use Kevin a couple of times dealing with issues and he has been great over 20 something years I've known himare you stephanie a couple times dealing with issues anne has been great over to the 27 years I've known him
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27 Jul, 2015 by Ray
John showed multiple times during the course of my case that he personally cared very much about me and my family first. The team did a great job and I can recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney.
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09 Dec, 2015 by Paul
I am an attorney who handles Social Security cases and Social Security appeals to the Federal District Court. I just hired Sarah to appeal a case to the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals for me. I have had a lot of experience with her over the years, and she is one of the best Social Security briefwriters in the country.
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09 Jun, 2017 by Terri
My lawyer, Dale Albright, was a wonderful attorney. When I made my first call to the office, they were all very helpful and willing to assist in my case. My first consultation they came to my house, which was great. Throughout the entire process, Dale, was always there to help and answer any questions. His response time was usually within 24 hours. I was even given personal contact information should I have needed to contact him after hours. I hope that I do not have to go through another case like this, but he would be whom I'd have to represent me. I would refer him to anyone who needs legal assistance as well.
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30 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
I was having a difficulty getting signed up with Goldberg and Goldberg and Attorney Jon Goldberg listened to me and had enough faith and belief in me to get me signed up . Being his client has eased my mind so much. My case is a really difficult one and I actually feel he will become Victorious in this. I like also when you see him he does not rush you. He lets you have time to talk to him and rised on every word you say. He is going to be a Rare Lawyer meaning one of the small handfulls that give their all to see JUSTICE done.. I wouldnt be surprised his middle name is JUSTICE.. Thanks Attorney Goldberg..
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23 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
No one knows when tragedy will strike a family. Senseless drunk drivers and the costs they cause both financially and physically to your loved ones led me to Mr. Deem. Unless you are in an accident you cannot image the medical collection notices and insanity of the insurance industry. Just know its impossible to navigate on your own. Be prepared to hire an attorney to assist you with getting your claims paid and so much more. I am grateful to Mr.Deem and his dedicated staff for their commitment to their clients. It is not an easy road to recovery but having someone with knowledge and experience can lift your spirits.
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12 Sep, 2018 by Nichole james
From the first day I picked up the phone and spoke with Ms.NG she was on top of my case. She worked very hard and looked into everything tht could help me win my case. I am so thankful for her.
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12 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Jonas is handling my case and I am very confident that he will get the job done. He is very informative and answered any questions I had. He is professional and I have not had any issues so far. I appreciate all that he does, thanks.
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30 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
We hired her at the final step of going before the administrative law judge for a social security case and feel that Mrs. Webb definitely tipped the scale in our favor!! We won, very grateful to her for that!
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13 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Steven is a great lawyer who is kind, patient, hardworking and answered any questions I had without rushing me. I would recommend him to anybody.
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23 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Great job representing me I. My social security case. I would recommend her.
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30 Jun, 2024 by Cindygold1
I hired Carol Anne Johnson to take care of a pressing legal matter that had gone unresolved for far to long. My experience with Attorney Johnson was nothing short of EXCELLENT.
Within 6 weeks of the time I hired Attorney Johnson, she managed to get all necessary documents tracked down and filed withe the court, with a hearing set soon after.
The experience was painless...And, to her credit I came out with the result I was hoping for. Ms. Johnson is a thorough attorney that gets the job done in a no-nonsense brilliant fashion!
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02 Dec, 2012 by Donna
My late husband had hired a different attorney to represent him with social security. He was turned down 2 times. After the 2nd turn down, my husband was given a terminal diagnosis. He contacted his attorney and was told there was nothing they could do but wait for the court date. My husband told them that he would not survive to see a court date. That was in Feb. 2012. My husband passed away in June of 2012. I than searched for an attorney to represent me on my husbands pending appeal for the back pay. Mr. Gonzalez was recommended to me by another attorney. From the beginning he was honest and answered all my questions, including if there was anything that could have been done when my husband got his terminal diagnosis. He took my case even though it meant having to deal with the other attorney( who we dicovered had not ever requested a single document). The bottom line is we went to court and had a favorable outcome. and everytime I had a question I received a timely response. If you need an attorney in the area that he practices, use him. I am confident you will not regret it.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
What a difference between Binder & Binder and Warren Harris!!! This man has 30+ years experience in social security disability and knows how to use it. Could not be happier with the outcome of my case.
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09 Jul, 2013 by Enid
Mr. Camps started working on my case last year and from day one he was very positive confident and very pleasant to work with and always answered my phone calls the same day and the staff is also very pleasant and in less than three months I got my case approved.
Thank you Mr.Camps for all the hard work you and your staff provided
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Can Do for You
A Social Security and Disability lawyer specializes in helping individuals navigate the complex process of applying for and securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These lawyers assist clients in filing applications, gathering necessary medical evidence, appealing denied claims, and representing them in hearings before administrative law judges. A lawyer can help maximize the chances of approval by ensuring that the paperwork is accurate, deadlines are met, and legal standards are addressed.
If you are disabled and unable to work, or if your Social Security Disability claim has been denied, a Social Security and Disability lawyer can guide you through the legal process to obtain the benefits you’re entitled to.
When Should I Hire a Social Security & Disability Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer in the following situations:
- Applying for SSDI or SSI benefits: The application process for disability benefits can be complex, with strict requirements and documentation. A lawyer can assist in completing the application correctly and submitting the required medical evidence to improve your chances of approval.
- Denied disability claim: If your initial claim for SSDI or SSI benefits has been denied, a lawyer can help file an appeal and represent you in hearings. Many claims are denied initially, and having legal representation during the appeal process significantly increases the chances of success.
- Requesting reconsideration: After an initial denial, you have the right to request reconsideration of your claim. A lawyer can help present new medical evidence or correct any errors in your original application.
- Hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration request is denied, you may request a hearing before an ALJ. A lawyer can represent you during the hearing, preparing you to answer questions and presenting a strong case based on your medical and work history.
- Proving medical conditions: If your disability involves complex medical conditions, a lawyer can help gather expert medical testimony or additional evidence to demonstrate that your condition meets the legal criteria for disability.
- Overpayments and cessation of benefits: If the Social Security Administration (SSA) claims you were overpaid or attempts to terminate your benefits, a lawyer can assist in challenging the decision and protect your right to continue receiving benefits.
- SSI for low-income individuals: If you are applying for SSI, which is based on financial need in addition to disability, a lawyer can help ensure that your financial records are correctly submitted to meet SSA’s strict income and asset limits.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help you avoid mistakes that could delay or jeopardize your claim.
What Does a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Do?
A Social Security and Disability lawyer provides a range of services to help individuals navigate the application and appeals process for SSDI or SSI benefits. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing initial applications: A lawyer can help prepare and file your SSDI or SSI application, ensuring that all necessary forms are completed accurately and medical evidence is included.
- Gathering medical evidence: A lawyer works with your doctors and healthcare providers to collect medical records, treatment histories, and expert opinions to support your disability claim.
- Filing appeals: If your initial application is denied, a lawyer can file an appeal and guide you through the reconsideration process, ensuring that any additional documentation or evidence is provided.
- Representing you in hearings: A lawyer will represent you in front of an administrative law judge, helping you prepare for the hearing and arguing your case to demonstrate that your disability prevents you from working.
- Handling deadlines and paperwork: A lawyer will ensure that all deadlines are met, and that any requests for additional information from the SSA are responded to promptly.
- Negotiating settlements (for private disability insurance claims): If your disability benefits claim involves private disability insurance (in addition to or instead of SSDI/SSI), a lawyer can help negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Fighting benefit terminations or overpayment claims: If the SSA attempts to terminate your benefits or claims you were overpaid, a lawyer can defend you in administrative proceedings or file for a waiver or reconsideration.
How Are Social Security & Disability Lawyers Paid?
Social Security and Disability lawyers are typically paid on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if your case is successful, either through the approval of your disability benefits or winning an appeal. Here's how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The fee is usually 25% of your past-due (backpay) benefits, but no more than $7,200. This fee structure is set by the SSA, and lawyers cannot charge more than this amount for SSDI or SSI cases.
- No cost for future benefits: Lawyers are not entitled to any portion of your future monthly disability benefits. Their fee is strictly limited to a percentage of your backpay.
- Additional costs: In some cases, you may need to pay for additional expenses, such as obtaining medical records or expert witness testimony. These costs are usually minimal, but it’s essential to ask your lawyer about any additional expenses upfront.
It’s essential to confirm fee arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid misunderstandings.
How Much Does a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer is typically structured around the contingency fee system outlined by the SSA. General cost information includes:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer’s fee is capped at 25% of your backpay, with a maximum of $7,200. For example, if you are awarded $10,000 in backpay, the lawyer will receive $2,500 (25%), and you will receive the remaining $7,500.
- No cost for future benefits: Lawyers are not entitled to any portion of your future monthly disability benefits. Their fee is strictly limited to a percentage of your backpay.
- Additional costs: In some cases, you may need to pay for additional expenses, such as obtaining medical records or expert witness testimony. These costs are usually minimal, but it’s essential to ask your lawyer about any additional expenses upfront.
Overall, there is no financial risk in hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer, as they only get paid if your case is successful.
Top Questions to Ask a Social Security & Disability Lawyer
Before hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with Social Security Disability cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling SSDI and SSI cases similar to yours, particularly if you have a complex medical condition. -
How do you charge for your services?
Confirm that the lawyer charges a contingency fee and that you won’t owe any fees unless your claim is successful. Ask if there are any additional costs for medical records or other expenses. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Disability claims can take time, especially if you’re appealing a denial. Ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what the typical timeline is for cases like yours. -
How will you help me prepare for my hearing?
If your case is going to a hearing before an administrative law judge, ask the lawyer how they will help you prepare for testimony and present your medical evidence effectively. -
What happens if I’m denied again?
Ask about the next steps if your reconsideration or appeal is denied, including the possibility of further appeals to federal court.
How to Check the Credibility of a Social Security & Disability Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable Social Security and Disability lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for Social Security experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in Social Security and Disability law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on Social Security Disability matters.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Membership in organizations like the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) can indicate that the lawyer is committed to representing disability claimants.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a Social Security and Disability lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Medical records: Bring copies of your medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, treatment histories, and any disability-related diagnoses.
- List of medications and treatments: Provide a detailed list of any medications you are taking, treatments you have received, and ongoing medical care related to your disability.
- Denial letters (if applicable): If your disability claim has been denied, bring a copy of the denial letter from the SSA, along with any documentation related to your appeal.
- Work history: Provide information about your previous jobs and work history, including details about how your disability has impacted your ability to work.
- Social Security application (if already filed): If you’ve already submitted an application, bring a copy of the application and any correspondence you’ve had with the SSA.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions you have about the legal process, the lawyer’s fees, and what to expect in terms of timelines and outcomes.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your situation.
