Understand What a Social Security Disability Lawyer Does

Before searching for a lawyer, it's important to understand what they will do for you. A Social Security Disability lawyer can assist with:

• Navigating the SSD application process: Helping you complete and submit the correct paperwork.
• Gathering medical evidence: Ensuring you provide all the necessary documentation to support your claim.
• Representing you during hearings: If your claim is denied and you need to appeal, a lawyer can represent you before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Appealing denied claims: If your initial claim is denied, a lawyer can help you navigate the appeal process.

Ask for Referrals

One of the best ways to find a reliable Social Security Disability lawyer is to ask for recommendations from others who have been through the process. Here are a few potential sources:

• Friends and Family: If you know someone who has gone through the SSD process, ask them about their experience and whether they would recommend their lawyer.
• Other Professionals: Your doctor, therapist, or other healthcare providers may have worked with disability lawyers in the past and may be able to provide recommendations.
• Social Media or Support Groups: Online support groups or forums for people with disabilities are often great places to get advice and recommendations from people who have firsthand experience.

Use Online Resources

Several online tools and websites can help you find Social Security Disability lawyers in your area:

• National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR): This is a national organization that helps connect people with qualified disability attorneys. Their website has a lawyer directory that can help you search for lawyers based on your location.
• Social Security Administration (SSA) Website: The SSA doesn’t provide specific lawyer recommendations, but it offers resources on how to apply for disability benefits and lists local offices where you can get further information.
• State Bar Associations: Many state bar associations offer lawyer referral services. These services can connect you with attorneys who specialize in Social Security Disability law.

Look for Experience and Specialization

It’s important to hire a lawyer who specializes in Social Security Disability law. Social Security law can be very complex, and a lawyer who regularly handles these types of cases will be more familiar with the ins and outs of the system.

• Experience with SSD cases: Look for a lawyer who has experience handling Social Security Disability claims. If possible, try to find one who has successfully represented clients with similar conditions.
• Success Rate: While no lawyer can guarantee success, many disability lawyers will share their experience in winning cases or provide a track record of their successes.

Check the Lawyer’s Reputation

It’s essential to ensure that the Social Security Disability lawyer you hire has a solid reputation. You can do this by:

• Checking online reviews: Many websites offer reviews of lawyers, such as Avvo and Martindale-Hubbell, where past clients share their experiences.
• Looking for disciplinary actions: You can check if the lawyer has ever been disciplined or sanctioned by the state bar association or any other legal entity.
• Asking for references: A reputable lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients or colleagues.

Consider the Lawyer’s Fees

Most Social Security Disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. The typical fee is 25% of your back pay, but it is capped at a maximum of $6,000. This fee structure can be beneficial because you don’t have to pay upfront.

• Clarify fees early on: Make sure the lawyer explains their fee structure clearly, and that you understand how they will be compensated.
• Understand the fee arrangement: If you win your case, the fee will typically be paid directly from your Social Security back pay. If you lose, you typically don’t owe any legal fees.

Schedule a Consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential lawyers, schedule a consultation. Most Social Security Disability lawyers offer free consultations. During the consultation, you can ask questions such as:

• Experience with similar cases: Ask about their experience with cases similar to yours.
• Strategy for your case: How do they plan to approach your claim? Will they assist you with gathering medical evidence, or do they expect you to handle that?
• Timeline and expectations: What is the estimated timeline for your case, and what are the chances of success?

The consultation is also a great opportunity to assess whether the lawyer is a good fit for you. You should feel comfortable with them, and they should be attentive to your needs and concerns.

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts when selecting a lawyer. You want someone who will take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and treat you with respect. Social Security Disability claims can take months or even years to resolve, so it’s important to feel confident in your lawyer’s ability to represent you throughout the process.