When Should You Contact a Social Security Disability Attorney Near You?

The process to apply and claim Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is not so easy. 

Did you know that in 2020, over 9.5 million Americans relied on disability benefits? With nearly 619,636 workers receiving benefits in 2020, finding your way through the application process can feel overwhelming. That’s where an experienced lawyer helps you to stand out for the right reasons.

You might be considering applying or have already faced a denial. So, it’s important to understand when to hire a disability lawyer.This blog breaks down the benefits of hiring a Social Security disability lawyer and when to contact them.

How Soon to Hire a Lawyer for an SSI or SSDI Claim?

  1. Before You Apply -  If you don’t know much about how to apply for SSI or SSDI claims, you should consult a disability attorney before submitting your application. 
    The main reason behind it is that many disability applications often get denied at the initial stage. That’s not because the person isn’t disabled, but because of technical mistakes. Missing documents, incomplete medical records, or not meeting work-credit requirements are some of the biggest reasons claims are rejected.
  2. If Your Claim Is Denied -  Have your initial claims already been denied? This doesn't mean you should give up. You can contact a trusted disability attorney even after your application was rejected.

They can guide you through the appeals process, helping you gather additional evidence and represent you at hearings. Having a legal representation can improve your chances of success during an appeal.

A lawyer can review your situation, explain the eligibility rules in plain language, gather the right medical proof, and make sure your application is filled out correctly. Taking this step early can save you from avoidable delays and give you a stronger chance of being approved the first time.

  1. If You're Facing a Hearing - If your disability claim case progresses to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), it's highly recommended to have an attorney. 

Hearings can feel stressful as you’ll need to talk about your health, answer the judge’s questions, and sometimes respond to medical experts.

A lawyer can guide you for the hearing, cross-examine witnesses, and present your case effectively. This level of preparation can make a remarkable difference in the outcome. 

Some experienced attorneys, like Hadley & Fraulob, already have good working relationships with court staff and even ALJs. That professional rapport can help your hearing run smoothly and may even work in your favor.

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What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Social Security Disability Lawyer?

  1. Experience in Disability Cases -  Disability attorneys have detailed knowledge of Social Security law and are familiar with the complexities of the system. Their knowledge and experience make sure that all legal requirements are met. Not only this, an SSD lawyer can also foresee any challenges that may arise during the process.
  2. Increased Chances of Approval - According to GAO, people represented by an attorney were almost three times more likely to be approved for disability benefits than those without one.
    An attorney can help present your case in the best possible light, increasing the likelihood of a favorable decision.
  3. No Upfront Fees -  Most Social Security disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis; they only get paid if you win your case. So, you can get a lawyer’s help without paying anything up front.


Find Answers to the Most Commonly Asked Questions About SSD & SSDI Claims

Q. Can a lawyer speed up the SSDI process?

While a lawyer cannot speed up the Social Security Administration's processing times, they can make sure that your application is complete and accurate. This helps in preventing delays caused by errors or missing information.

Q. Do I need a lawyer if my claim is denied?

Yes, hiring a lawyer after a denial can be beneficial. They help you understand why your claim was denied and assist in gathering additional evidence for an appeal. Their experience can improve your chances of a successful outcome.

Q. How long does it take to get a decision on my disability claim?

The timeline can vary. For many people, the initial decision takes about 3 to 6 months. If your claim is denied and you need to appeal, the wait for a hearing can stretch to a year or more, depending on where you live. 

Having a disability lawyer can help make sure your paperwork is complete and strong, which may prevent avoidable delays.

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Takeaway

Choosing when to hire a disability lawyer depends on your individual circumstances. 

Whether you're just starting the application process, have faced a denial, or are preparing for a hearing, legal representation can provide valuable support and increase your chances of success. 

If you're unsure about the next steps, consulting with an SSD attorney can help clarify your options and keep you on the right track.

Start Your Disability Claim Journey the Right Way With Hadley & Fraulob - The #1 SSDI & SSI Attorneys in Northern California

Living in Sacramento or nearby areas and looking for a Social Security Disability Attorney near you? You’re at the right place!

We at Hadley & Fraulob specialize in Social Security disability cases and can provide the guidance and support you need. In our experience of over 40 years, we’ve helped thousands of clients gain the benefits they deserve.

Our success rate is 90% and we don’t hesitate to fight for the cases that other lawyers may turn down. 

Call us at (800) 404-4458 to book a free case review now!