Hiring a Social Security lawyer cab help you win your case for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). A good Social Security lawyer will analyze your case and help you gather the evidence required to get Social Security benefits.

It may take months to get Social Security benefits and the Social Security Administration (SSA) places deadlines on the appeals process. Whether you are beginning to apply for SSDI or SSI benefits or starting the appeal process, a lawyer can help you with your claim.

What Should I Look for in a Disability Lawyer?

A good Social Security lawyer will handle every phase of the claim process.

If you are beginning to apply for SSDI or SSI Disability, your lawyer should be willing to:
- Analyze your case and determine if it meets the Social Security requirements
- File your initial claim on your behalf
- Collect medical records to prove that you are disabled

If you have applied for benefits and are now starting the appeal process, your lawyer should be able to:
- File a request for reconsideration and a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ)
- Obtain a copy of your file from the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review to assure that you receive a fair hearing
- Request that you get considered for other benefits
- Help you testify at a hearing
- Help you with each step of the appeals process

Disability Lawyer for Appeal. What are the Steps of the Appeal Process?

Are you starting the appeals process and confused by the SSA's procedures? A Social Security lawyer will be able to explain the appeals process to you. Below is a brief summary of the appeals process:

1. Request for Reconsideration. At the first step of the appeals process, you can request that the SSA to reconsider their decision. When complete a request for reconsideration, your claim will be assigned to a Claims or Disability Analyst who will review your case and determine if you are eligible to receive Social Security benefits.
2. Hearing before a Judge. At the second step of the appeals process, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. A Social Security lawyer is highly suggested at this step of the appeals process. At the hearing, you and your lawyer will present your case and the judge will decide your case.
3. Written Appeal to the Appeals Council. At the third step of the appeals process, you can request that the Appeals Council review the judge's decision. The Appeals Council will review your case and determine if you were given a fair hearing. The Appeals Council can deny your claim or the Appeals Council can return your case to the Administrative Law Judge for further review.
4. Federal Judge. At the fourth and final step of the appeals process, you can request that your case is reviewed by a Federal judge in the Federal District Court. The Federal judge can award Social Security benefits, deny Social Security benefits or send your case back for an additional hearing.

How Can a Social Security Lawyer Help Me?

A disability lawyer with experience can help you through each step of the Social Security Administration process.

A Disability Lawyer Can Help You by:
- Protecting your right to a fair hearing
- Appealing the Social Security Administration's decisions
- Helping you gather the necessary medical evidence to win your case
- Requesting copies of your medical records
- Obtaining a detailed report by your doctor to prove your disability
- Ensuring all forms are submitted on time
- Representing you at court
- Helping you prepare for your court hearing
- Presenting evidence in support of your claim before a judge
- Cross-examining medical or non-medical advisors called by the judge
- Improving your chance of winning Social Security benefits
- Reducing the amount of time it takes to get your first check by the SSA

Does the SSA Require I Use a Lawyer?

The Social Security Administration does not require you to have a lawyer or advocate. However, a lawyer can help you with every stage of the application and appeals process -- whether it be filling out paperwork or fighting for your case in court.

Can I Get a Free Evaluation by a Disability Lawyer?

Yes! Any good Social Security lawyer will review your case for free and be willing to discuss your case with you.

I Can't Afford a Lawyer. What Should I Do?

The majority of lawyers will only be paid if the Social Security Administration approves your claim. A lawyer should be able to provide you with a free case evaluation and explain the Social Security Administration's process for obtaining SSI or SSDI benefits to you.

At Berry & Associates, an experienced, lawyer will work with you and fight for the Social Security benefits you deserve. Statistics show that people who hire Social Security lawyers are more likely to receive disability benefits -- so don't be afraid to call us and ask how we can help you.