Potential Renters Beware

PRACTICE AREAS

Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income Claims

Do I need an attorney?

Although the informality of the hearing makes it possible for some claimants to represent themselves, statistics have shown that people represented by attorneys have been successful more often than people without attorney representation. Whether you hire an attorney is entirely up to you; but you should consider what an attorney would do to represent you.

Every case is different. Your attorney's role depends on the particular facts of your case. However, a few of the things an attorney may do are:

Gather medical and other evidence.

Analyze your case under social security regulations.

Contact your doctor and explain social security regulations to obtain a report consistent with those regulations.

Refer you to additional doctors (usually specialists) for further medical reports to answer questions raised by social security regulations.

Send you to a vocational expert for a report on your ability to work.

Suggest that the Social Security Administration send you to a doctor for a consultative examination.

Obtain documents from your social security file.

Review actions taken by the Social Security Administration

Ask that a prior application for benefits be reopened.

Seek waiver of a time limit.

Request subpoenas to insure the presence of crucial witnesses or documents at your hearing.

Advise you how best to prepare yourself to testify at your hearing.

Protect your rights to a fair hearing by objecting to improper evidence and procedures.

Cross-examine adverse witnesses at your hearing.

Present a closing statement at your hearing arguing that you are entitled to benefits under social security regulations.

Submit a written summary of the evidence and argument to the administrative law judge.

Review, suggest changes or make legal objections to written questions, which are sometimes sent to a doctor by the administrative law judge after a hearing requesting an additional medical opinion.

If you win, make sure that the Social Security Administration correctly calculates your benefits.

If you lose, request review of the hearing decision by the Appeals Council.

If necessary, represent you in a federal court review of your case.

If you would like to meet with an attorney who specializes in social security claims please call us today at (270) 827-9800 to set up your free consultation. You can also contact the Joel Wesch by clicking on the following link.

Joel Wesch

Joel Wesch specialize in Social Security Claims and is a member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives. For more information about this organization go to www.nosscr.org