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07 Nov, 2024 by Maria lucuara
Quedamos complacidos por tan excelente trabajo. Linet San Juan es una abogada q sabe trabajar con los hispanos. Mil gracias me sentí muy bien atendida satisfecha con todo.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Dougout
I was contacted in a very timely manner after my initial reaching out to Mr. Lee's law office. I found Mr. Lee to be very informative and candid in the subject matter of our discussion. I definitely felt that the information provided eased my concerns.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Keith
As someone who has never had an attorney before & heard all the negatives stories about them, Mark was none of them. He was kind, he listened & answered all my questions & concerns. 99% of the time he answered his phone directly & if not, got back to me within a couple hrs. When Mark said he was going to do something, he acted immediately & things got done. You cannot go wrong hiring Mark as an attorney for your workman’s comp. case. He truly gets results.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Sophia viera
wonderful Social Security disability attorneys
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28 Nov, 2024 by Darnel michel
Listen fellas if you have the arrest warrant or you need legal counsel, this is a place to go 11 out of 10
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25 Nov, 2024 by Sarah viera
Wonderful law firm, very knowledgeable experts in the areas of personal injury and criminal law.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Juan r
Anthony Rickman is truly the best in the business! He’s punctual, communicates effectively, and works tirelessly to get the job done. Highly recommend his services!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Sean edwards
When you hire Anthony Rickman (and his firm)you feel like you're being represented by a good friend and that you're not just a client. I did not have representation initially not realizing my legal situation needed an attorney and not only an attorney a good one. Once I hired Anthony the slow legal process I was stuck in without his help, then moved swiftly and smoothly. The results he got on my charges were greater than expected. He made what seemed impossible, possible. Do yourself and your pocketbook a favor and call Anthony first. If you have spoken to other attorneys and still need representation, then call him next.
Sean Edwards
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20 Nov, 2024 by Danielle albright
29 Oct, 2024 by Former wc adjuster
As a former and current workers' compensation claims adjuster, I felt well-equipped to navigate the workers’ compensation system. However, when bad actors refuse to act fairly, even experienced professionals can struggle. After I sustained a repetitive injury at work, my employer, also an insurance carrier, denied my medical care, claiming my situation had to be "extreme" to qualify for surgery. It was clear my claim was being mismanaged, and despite consistent communication efforts from both me and my treating physician, my care continued to be denied, affecting my daily life.
With few options left, I sought legal representation to secure the medical care and benefits I was entitled to. As an adjuster, I know the best attorneys let their results speak for themselves—no need for flashy advertisements. Selecting the right attorney was crucial, and choosing John Sharpless made all the difference. From our initial conversation, John was quick to offer knowledgeable guidance and filed a petition for benefits for the care I was being denied.
John’s adaptability and strategic approach truly set him apart. Drawing on my adjuster experience, I was able to collaborate with John, round-tabling the claim and adjusting tactics as case details evolved. He was always several steps ahead, giving me confidence in his ability to secure a fair outcome. Ultimately, John negotiated a settlement $25,000 above the claim's initial valuation—not just for the money, but to ensure I received the care and compensation necessary to fully recover.
Navigating a work injury claim is challenging, even for an experienced adjuster. John Sharpless made the journey manageable and realistic, cutting through the nonsense and focusing on what mattered. If you need a workers’ comp attorney who knows his stuff and won’t sugarcoat things, John is the one to call. He is a no B.S type of attorney, Just Comp.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Tony h
I used Kevin back in 2004 for an accident case out of Sarasota County. The trial in case took quite a while but that’s expected. Kevin was absolutely amazing and did an in-depth thorough job. He kept me updated all along the way and it all paid off in the end, literally, I highly recommend Kevin Woods for any type of Cases that he practices. I really don’t think you could find a better attorney anywhere around in Southwest Florida, including Morgan and Morgan. If you’ve been involved in any kind of an accident whatsoever, make sure you hire this man because you won’t find any better.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Michael r. guinn
Highly recommend!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Sonya seago
Summer Goldman is great she works hard on your case ready to fight for you or get you the best possible out come. Even when the case is over she will do what she can to help you.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Odalin tavarezg bknm
30 Dec, 2024 by Miguel blanes
09 Jan, 2025 by Sonya seago
Summer Goldman is great she works hard on your case ready to fight for you or get you the best possible out come. Even when the case is over she will do what she can to help you.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Odalin tavarezg bknm
30 Dec, 2024 by Miguel blanes
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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12 Dec, 2024 by Rick harter
Great lawyers they helped me when I had no clue I would definitely recommend them to anyone
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09 Dec, 2024 by Rodrigo san
Execelente atención con Berlín la verdad muy buenas atención por parte de la abogada Karol bello y sus asistentes Keyla asen de tu caso una excelencia, muy profesionales
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27 Nov, 2024 by Scott mcdonald
Bailey is the best. She explained everything to me in a simplistic manner without making me feel she was talking down to me.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Heidi
I helped a family member hire Mr. Viera. He and his paralegal, Vicki, really know their business. Just as important, their compassion for everything my poor relative has been through really helped calm her fears. Now she has SSI and HOPE!
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24 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Viera and his staff have been very courteous and efficient throughout the duration of my case. They kept me and my family informed on a timely manner of any changes and helped me understand the confusing legal process. I would recommend him and his firm for any SSI/SSD issues.
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17 Aug, 2023 by Jeff
Antonio Viera and staff kept me informed and answered all my questions. I would recommend him to anyone who needs help with SSI or SSD. He did a marvelous job.
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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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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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19 Sep, 2024 by Ella
Ms Parwani is a lovely person and a very excellent attorney. She filed a chapter 7 Bankruptcy for me and her main concern it seemed, was to get the best results that she could given my situation. I wasn't well during the time of working on the bankruptcy and Ms Parwani was so understanding. I would recommend Ms Parwani to anyone needing her skilled work.
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17 Mar, 2019 by Jeff webb
19 Nov, 2024 by Jerry hampton
Great law office learned a lot taught me a lot I would recommend you guys and everybody I know thank you again may God bless you
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18 Nov, 2024 by Amanda burkardt
To my attorney, Zach Morrison and the entire Franchi Law firm:
I want to thank you wholeheartedly for your true dedication and vigilantly hard work in fighting hard for me on my charges. You have put in a great deal of care towards me and I am so grateful for my our outcome. I would like to express my most sincere thanks for the most professional representation. You have stuck by me through the last several long months in dealing with this very stressful case. I admire your composure, work ethic and most of all excellent representation. Everyone at your law firm was kind, patient, and supportive. You have listened to some of the hardest parts of my life and extended sincere compassion and guidance in defending my actions. You answered my endless phone calls and constantly reassured me we would get through this difficult time together. I extend my true thanks for walking me through this journey step by step with a good heart, as a person and as an attorney. Highly recommend Zach Morrison as a criminal defense attorney. Extremely satisfied with his services.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Daba jay
Haley at Franchi Law was incredible. She made a tough process manageable with her knowledge and clear communication. I appreciate all her hard work. Definitely recommend this firm!
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16 Dec, 2014 by Wayne
I retained Carol Wilson as my attorney for Social Security Disability. I found her to be, honest and compassionate. She was very informative to the process that I would be going through. I was able to reach out to her or her staff to answer any questions no matter how big or small. Ms. Wilson was very successful in winning my benefits. She was able to have an on the record decision made without going in front of the most difficult judge in my area. I felt as though Ms. Wilson handled my case very professionally, I would highly recommend her to anyone needing to hire a disability attorney.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Carol Wilson was very polite, knowledgeable, and professional. Upon our meeting before the hearing she discussed what would transpire in the court room. Because of my issues, she was able to calm me down and also asked the Judge at the end if we could be dismissed due to my panic and anxiety. She was very observant and caring.
During the hearing she was on point and very genuine. She helped me through the hearing. I greatly appreciated that.
I do want to thank the staff for keeping me informed and answering all my questions when I called. They were professional, polite, and understanding.
Thank you Carol Wilson and staff.
Sincerely,
Cristy
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15 Feb, 2012 by Bonnie
Carol did her job professionaly and was even complimented by the Judge. I am happy that I chose this law firm for my disability appeal
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19 Dec, 2024 by Terry n
I really appreciate Catania And Catania and all their employees NEVER had to wait for a phone call back or a response. They’re very professional, always taking consideration to my feelings and injuries. I would recommend Catania And Catania 100% to anybody who needs a good attorney. Special thanks to Desiree, Peter, Madelyn.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Bezo chad
First off I want too thank the entire Catania and Catania team for constantly fighting for me throughout my whole journey.The Catania and Catania team gave me constant communication throughout my journey and even exceeded what I thought the outcome would be. I want to give a special thanks to LUCY BERMUDEZ & LISA KEELER for all your help ! If you ever need injury lawyers call on this team !!!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Anne dean
We had a challenging situation with our son who had an accident in Florida and yet lived in another state. All of the details of medical care and insurance, etc were confusing during a difficult time and the team at Catania and Catania really helped us navigate everything.
At the end, Lucy helped settle everything in a thorough and expedient way.
We are very thankful for the help and support we received from Patti, Lisa, and all who helped on our son’s case.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Bezo chad
First off I want too thank the entire Catania and Catania team for constantly fighting for me throughout my whole journey.The Catania and Catania team gave me constant communication throughout my journey and even exceeded what I thought the outcome would be. I want to give a special thanks to LUCY BERMUDEZ & LISA KEELER for all your help ! If you ever need injury lawyers call on this team !!!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Anne dean
We had a challenging situation with our son who had an accident in Florida and yet lived in another state. All of the details of medical care and insurance, etc were confusing during a difficult time and the team at Catania and Catania really helped us navigate everything.
At the end, Lucy helped settle everything in a thorough and expedient way.
We are very thankful for the help and support we received from Patti, Lisa, and all who helped on our son’s case.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Joe stafford
Lisa and Lucy were professional in managing my account and I am very appreciative. I would recommend this Law Firm!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Weldon daeffler
Let me start by saying, if I could give more than 5 stars, I'd give him 100! If you need a family law attorney, hiring David Hurvitz is the best decision you will make and will be the first step to getting to see your daughter/son on a regular basis. Mr. Hurvitz made the process of getting custody of my daughters easy, but also as stress free as any custody situation can be. His communication is on point, I never went more than 12 hours after messaging to get a response, and when I contacted him during an emergency situation, he was on the phone with me with 20 min. If I ever need a family attorney ever again (hopefully not but one never knows these days) I will for sure be going to him to resolve my issue. My case lasted 5 years and it wasn't because of Mr. Hurvitz, but you better believe he stayed on top things to keep the case moving as fast as the system would let us go. His prices are extremely reasonable, I didnt spend tens of thousands like you always hear, and he and his staff are very understanding people, and understanding of situations.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Hannah j
David has been my lawyer since 2017 and has helped me so many times over the years with a difficult child custody case. He is an excellent lawyer and I am truly blessed to have had him on my side for so many years. He has always given me valuable advice and has never steered me wrong throughout this entire process. He fights for you and your child as if you are the most important client he has, every single time. I also worked with Joe in this latest case and he is also just as amazing! David’s office has the best people that are there to support YOU. You can’t go wrong hiring David for a case, he is worth every penny and more.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jordan permenter
I highly discourage anyone from using this attorney. 2 years in. 4 court appearances and I am still not able to see my child. The only thing that this attorney was efficient at was getting payment from myself. After choosing to proceed with out his counsel it appears wants to keep the additional funds that were allocated to his retainer as a show of good faith.
Furthermore, on the subject of my case in particular it was all paint by numbers with no real attention paid to any of the specifics. I consistently had to edit, or completely rewrite agreements, because they were written as is if they had zero consideration for anything we hade discussed or even the sex of the child. I was In a near constant position of having to correct counsel. You would hope this would make a professional assess their shortcomings and redouble their efforts, but in reality the attorney became defensive and recalcitrant with me (his client).
At times it seemed as if things were being drawn out, almost provoked by counsel.
It's a hell of a thing to be removed from your child's life without cause, it's another entirely to have your advocate profit from extending the tragedy.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Weldon daeffler
Let me start by saying, if I could give more than 5 stars, I'd give him 100! If you need a family law attorney, hiring David Hurvitz is the best decision you will make and will be the first step to getting to see your daughter/son on a regular basis. Mr. Hurvitz made the process of getting custody of my daughters easy, but also as stress free as any custody situation can be. His communication is on point, I never went more than 12 hours after messaging to get a response, and when I contacted him during an emergency situation, he was on the phone with me with 20 min. If I ever need a family attorney ever again (hopefully not but one never knows these days) I will for sure be going to him to resolve my issue. My case lasted 5 years and it wasn't because of Mr. Hurvitz, but you better believe he stayed on top things to keep the case moving as fast as the system would let us go. His prices are extremely reasonable, I didnt spend tens of thousands like you always hear, and he and his staff are very understanding people, and understanding of situations.
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01 Dec, 2024 by Hannah j
David has been my lawyer since 2017 and has helped me so many times over the years with a difficult child custody case. He is an excellent lawyer and I am truly blessed to have had him on my side for so many years. He has always given me valuable advice and has never steered me wrong throughout this entire process. He fights for you and your child as if you are the most important client he has, every single time. I also worked with Joe in this latest case and he is also just as amazing! David’s office has the best people that are there to support YOU. You can’t go wrong hiring David for a case, he is worth every penny and more.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jordan permenter
I highly discourage anyone from using this attorney. 2 years in. 4 court appearances and I am still not able to see my child. The only thing that this attorney was efficient at was getting payment from myself. After choosing to proceed with out his counsel it appears wants to keep the additional funds that were allocated to his retainer as a show of good faith.
Furthermore, on the subject of my case in particular it was all paint by numbers with no real attention paid to any of the specifics. I consistently had to edit, or completely rewrite agreements, because they were written as is if they had zero consideration for anything we hade discussed or even the sex of the child. I was In a near constant position of having to correct counsel. You would hope this would make a professional assess their shortcomings and redouble their efforts, but in reality the attorney became defensive and recalcitrant with me (his client).
At times it seemed as if things were being drawn out, almost provoked by counsel.
It's a hell of a thing to be removed from your child's life without cause, it's another entirely to have your advocate profit from extending the tragedy.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Alyssa bickler
Caring and helpful!
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10 Oct, 2023 by Dina poma-barnes
18 Aug, 2022 by Jonathan bolding
24 Feb, 2024 by Caridad pena
Disability, not taking new cases
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28 Sep, 2023 by Maria elena jorge
Best disability lawyer ever!! Thanks so much for helping me to get social security disability. Thanks for caring.
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28 Mar, 2023 by Jackie barber
Christine was my lawyer about 20 years ago. She was the best lawyer ever she beat that company that we were suing butt. That other company had more than one lawyer and she'd beat them good she is the sweetest sweetest sweetest sweetest person ever
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09 Jul, 2018 by Bonnie
Sharon was determined & never gave up ....went to Federal Court on appeals twice....Sharon hung in there until we were finally granted Social Security Disability...back almost nine years...Your in good hands with her....It was a privilege to call her our lawyer. Sincerely, Bonnie
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18 Mar, 2016 by Dawn
Even when I thought of giving up, Sharon stuck to it and never gave up on me. I am very happy with her professional knowledge and experience. She kept me in the loop and made sure I knew she was continuing to fight for my case. She made it happen and I couldn't be happier. Thanks to Sharon.
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24 Dec, 2015 by Amiel (buck) hall
Wow! This women will do everything she can to help you, and that's what she did for me. I was ready to give up after 4 years, but she helped me, with all the appeals, and everything else, and it finally paid off. I would recommend her in a heart beat. Thank you Sharon for representing me so well.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Charlotte henry
Horrible experience with James G. Souza III, P. that cost me a lot of money. If I could leave negative stars I would! James Souza will lie about everything once he gets the money from you he doesn’t care about you or your case. Slow responsive, Unprofessional in so many ways, Trash customer service, Trash greedy lawyer. He doesn’t like to respond to email because it hold him accountable for his negligent. Nothing has been done for my case! Spend your money somewhere else. James Souza is a joke
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28 Mar, 2024 by M
I used Jim Souza’s services last year for help with expungement. He was very helpful and organized throughout the whole process. It took some time, no fault of Mr. Souza’s, and in the end, I was able to get the results I was hoping for! Thank you again, Jim!
-Monica C.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Catherine wellen
I recently worked with James G. Souza III PA on a an extremely complicated case for my accounting firm. He was knowledgeable, professional, and responsive throughout the entire process. He kept me informed every step of the way and made sure I understood all of my options. I was particularly impressed with his attention to detail and his ability to navigate complex legal issues.
Overall, I would highly recommend James G. Souza III PA to anyone in need of legal services. His expertise and dedication to his clients is truly unmatched, and I wouldn't hesitate to work with him again in the future.
If you're looking for a law firm that will go above and beyond to help you achieve your legal goals, call James G. Souza. He is simply the best!
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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:
-
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.
