Best Social Security & Disability lawyers in North Reading, MA

2 Social Security & Disability Lawyers in North Reading, MA

experienced lawyers

Roberta A Schreiber

348 Park Street, Suite 108, North Reading, MA

Elder Law Estate Planning Family Law +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

13 Feb, 2014 by Doris

I had never hired a lawyer before, so I asked some friends about their lawyers. Two of them said that I should see Roberta, who lives in my town. I was nervous when I called, but her secretary, Jeanne, was very friendly. Jeanne asked me some questions, to make sure that Roberta could handle my case, and set up an appointment. She told me the first consultation was free. When I walked in, there was the cutest dog I have ever seen (he is Roberta's dog). His name is Sam. Jeanne asked me if I was ok with dogs. I was (I have three dogs), so I played with him until Roberta met with me. Roberta was very friendly and asked a lot of questions about me, my health, my children, and why I was meeting with her. It was very easy to talk to her. I told her I needed a Will. She explained that I should also have a Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy. She asked me if I was concerned about protecting my house and savings if I had to go into a nursing home. I was glad she asked. I was worried about it, but didn't know how to ask about what I could do. I didn't want the State to take my housel. She told me about MassHealth, a program that pays for the nursing home. She asked if my husband (he died three years ago) was a veteran. When I said that he served in World War II, she said that I could apply for Veterans Aid and Attendance benefits if I needed money to pay home health aides to help me stay in my home. She also said that I should contact the local Elder Services Agency if I need help to stay in my home. She also explained that if I did no planning, all of my savings and my house could be lost if I had to go into a nursing home. She told me about deeding my house to my children with a life estate for me and setting up a trust that could not be changed. It was a lot of information. Roberta could tell I was confused, so she suggested that we have a second meeting, with my children there. She said that my children would be involved in my estate planning, and they should understand the ways I could protect my house and savings. We had a second meeting with my children at the meeting. After the meeting, we decided that the Trust (an irrevocable trust) was the best way to protect my home and savings. Roberta sent documents to me and my children with a letter explaining everything. I went over the documents with my children. I didn't understand some of the legal language, but my children did, so I felt good about signing the documents. We had a third meeting. Roberta explained everything again before we signed, to make sure that we understood and then we signed the documents. I am so glad I called her. I didn't think that an attorney would be that friendly. She did her best to make sure that I (and my children) understood the documents that we were signing. I admit I don't understand everything, but my children do. And I trust Roberta. I feel like that I did the right things to protect my home and my savings. Roberta is very smart and knows a lot about programs for older clients. My children also like her. My son is going to do his estate plan with her. I like everything about going to her office. There are bowls of candy and I really like her dog, Sam.

16 Nov, 2011 by Jeanne

I called Attorney Schreiber because my mother has alheimers. She was living with me and my family, and we were all stressed out. I have a part time job, a husband and three children. Someone had to watch my mother all of the time. We had to figure out how to keep her from wandering away from the house or turning on the stove and leaving an empty pot on it. I was exhausted by the time I met with Roberta. The first thing that she did was help us get a Personal Care Attendant through MassHealth, at a very low cost to us. That really helped. When my mother got worse, Roberta helped us find a good nurinsg home nearby and she applied for MassHealth to pay for my mother's care. Roberta made things so much easier for me. She did all of the paperwork to get my mother benefits. She is a very caring person. She understood what I was going through (she told me that her father had been in a nursing home before he died). She always returned my calls. I am so grateful that I found her.

11 Nov, 2011 by Jeff

I consulted Attorney Schreiber because I was appointed as Executor of my mother's estate. The first attorney that I hired was not responsive and did not tell me what to do after I was appointed. My sisters were asking what was happening, and I was not able to tell them. A friend told me about Attorney Schreiber and I made an appointment to meet with her. She and her assistant were friendly, and I liked them right away. I was offered cofffe, tea, or water and there was a plate of cookies. Attorney Schreiber was right on time. From the first meeting, she told me exactly what to do. She also gave me a checklist to consult after I left the office. She helped me find a good real estate broker and my mother's house was sold three months later. She told me how to close out my mother's bank accounts and she filled out the paperwork to sell the stock. She wrote to my sisters to tell them what was going on. She worked with my mother's accountant to make sure that the correct tax returns were filed. Everything was settled about eight months after I met with her. My sisters and I got our distributions and the estate was done. My sisters and I are very happy with Attorney Schreiber. She even returned telephone calls on the same day.

Steven A. Ciulla

348 Park St Ste 104, North Reading, MA

Government Litigation Social Security & Disability +3

4.8/5

5.0

1 Reviews

4.8

5 Reviews

31 Mar, 2024 by Susanne johnson

Excellent! I’m thankful for finding Roberta and engaging her legal services. My elderly widowed mother was never comfortable around attorneys. Roberta was a calm knowledgeable source that helped my mother understand what was necessary and helped her get her affairs in order.

20 Sep, 2022 by Edwin neale

Atty Roberta Schreiber is truly an amazing Atty, and I would highly recommend her. She helped me settle a difficult estate that has been dragged out for many years. I would highly recommend her law firm. Thanks Atty Schreiber E Neale

25 May, 2021 by Bob grady

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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.

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.