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DO YOU REALLY A NEED A LAWYER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY?

A lawyer isn't required to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.  However, many people who try to go it alone will get confused and frustrated and seek an attorney or advocate to assist them.

A lawyer or advocate can fill out the SSDI application for you and submit it.  He/she can review the application to be sure it is complete and without errors that could delay the claim.  Your lawyer/advocate can attend meetings, conferences or hearings with you.  The Social Security Administration (SSA) will work directly with your legal representative and will share your Social Security file.

Having legal representation can be especially important if you disagree with Social Security's decision on your claim and you need to appeal.  

Most denied cases require attendance at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.  Your legal representative can go with you to the hearing and can prepare for it.  He or she will prepare you and any witnesses on your side to testify effectively.

A 2017 study by the Government Accountability Office found that people who are represented by a professional advocate or attorney are twice as likely to be approved as those who are not represented.

By the way, a lawyer cannot charge you a fee unless your case is approved and you receive past due money from Social Security.  

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Charles W. Forsythe is principal of The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville, Alabama.  He does nothing but Social Security disability cases.  Free consultations available.  (256) 799-0297.


 


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