From our FAQ section
| How is the disability determination made? |
A procedure known as the "sequential evaluation process" is utilized and for adults, the process requires a step by step review of your current work activity, the severity of your impairments, your remaining physical and mental abilities, your past work experience, your age and education. |
Social Security Disability Law Office, P.A.Attorney, Robert C. Gray |
Do I need to hire an attorney?
Many people will initially apply for benefits by themselves but want to hire an attorney after their initial application has been denied. Attorneys experienced in these matters can provide many services including:
- Gathering critical medical records for submission
- Corresponding with your health care providers to obtain information necessary to win that may not be contained within your medical file
- Reviewing your file before the Hearing to be sure all important documents are there
- Requesting Reconsideration of your claim, a Hearing or an Appeals Council review
- Helping you and all critical witnesses prepare their testimony for the Hearing
- Properly presenting your case to the Administrative Law Judge following all appropriate rules of law and evidence
- Cross-examining vocational or medical experts that may appear at the Hearing at the request of the SSA
- Properly explaining all of your options once a decision has been made
The attorney will charge no fees up front and shall only collect a “fee” if your case is won. The fee will be no more than 25% of your past-due benefits or $6,000, whichever is less. “Past-due benefits” are those money benefits that you have not received dating back to the date the SSA determines you were eligible for benefits.
However, you should recognize that win or lose, you may be required to reimburse your attorney any out of pocket “costs” incurred in the handling of your claim.