Understand What a Disability Lawyer Does

A disability lawyer specializes in helping individuals who are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). They understand the complexities of the Social Security Administration (SSA) system and can help you:

• File your application correctly and on time.
• Gather and organize the necessary medical and work records.
• Represent you in the event of an appeal.
• Offer expert advice on the chances of success for your claim.

Look for Experience in Disability Law

• Specialization in Disability Law:
  It’s crucial to hire a lawyer who specializes in disability law. While general attorneys may have some knowledge of the law, a disability lawyer has deep experience with the intricacies of SSDI and SSI claims. Look for lawyers who focus specifically on Social Security disability cases.
• Track Record:
  The more experience a lawyer has with disability cases, the better they will be able to navigate the system and represent you effectively. Experienced lawyers understand the nuances of how disability claims are evaluated, and they have a history of successfully helping clients win their cases.

Check for Reviews and Reputation

• Online Reviews:
  In today’s digital age, online reviews and ratings can be incredibly helpful. Check platforms such as Google Reviews, Yelp, or Avvo for reviews and ratings from previous clients. Look for consistent positive feedback, and take note of any patterns in reviews regarding communication, professionalism, and success rates.
• Professional Reputation:
  Research the lawyer’s standing with professional organizations such as the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR) or state and local bar associations. A good reputation in the legal community often reflects a lawyer’s dedication and expertise.

Get a Referral or Recommendation

• Personal Referrals:
  Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of a reliable disability lawyer. Personal recommendations can often lead you to lawyers who have proven themselves in real-world situations.
• Doctor or Healthcare Provider Recommendations:
  If you are seeing a doctor or specialist for your disability, ask them if they know any reputable disability lawyers. Medical professionals who deal with disability claims frequently may be able to refer you to a trusted lawyer who understands the importance of strong medical evidence.
• Disability Advocacy Groups:
  Nonprofit disability organizations, such as The Arc, Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), or NOSSCR, can often provide recommendations for competent disability attorneys who have a strong understanding of the SSA’s disability processes.

Schedule a Consultation

• Initial Consultation:
  Many disability lawyers offer free consultations, so take advantage of this to meet with potential lawyers. During the consultation, ask about their experience with disability claims, their success rates, and how they plan to handle your case. This is a great opportunity to gauge whether the lawyer is a good fit for your needs.
• Questions to Ask During Consultation:
• How many years of experience do you have with Social Security Disability cases?
• What is your success rate for winning disability claims?
• Do you handle the case personally, or will other team members be involved?
• What is your fee structure? (Note that most disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win the case.)
• How long do you estimate the process will take?

Review Fees and Payment Structure

• Contingency Fees:
  Most disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means the lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. Typically, the fee is around 25% of your back pay (up to a maximum amount set by the SSA). It’s important to discuss and agree on the fee structure upfront so that you’re not caught off guard.
• Additional Costs:
  Ask if there are any additional costs outside of the contingency fee, such as filing fees, medical record fees, or expert witness fees. Understanding the full financial picture will help you make an informed decision.

Evaluate Communication and Support

• Responsiveness:
  A good lawyer should be responsive and communicative throughout the process. Pay attention to how quickly they respond to your initial inquiry and how well they explain the steps involved in your case. A lawyer who is attentive and clear in their communication can make the entire process less stressful.
• Personalized Attention:
  You want a lawyer who will take the time to understand your individual situation and provide tailored advice. Avoid lawyers who seem more focused on processing a large number of cases rather than focusing on the specifics of yours.

Consider the Lawyer’s Approach and Philosophy

• Personal Connection:
  It’s important that you feel comfortable with the lawyer you choose. Disability claims can be long and stressful, so you need someone who is compassionate and empathetic to your situation. Take note of how the lawyer interacts with you during your consultation.
• Commitment to Your Case:
  Ensure the lawyer is committed to seeing your case through from start to finish, whether that’s helping with your application, following up with the SSA, or representing you in an appeal hearing.