Help Yourself by Hiring a Florida Social Security Disability Attorney

It is possible, and not too difficult, to file your Social Security disability claim application on your own. The next step, however, is much harder. If your claim is denied and you need to appeal, you will want an experienced Florida Social Security disability lawyer on your side.

Government Statistics Show That Disability Claimants Have a Better Chance of Success With a Lawyer

The Social Security Administration’s Inspector General analyzed Social Security disability claims, and one of the key conclusions of that study was that people who apply for Social Security disability benefits have a better chance of success when they are represented by a disability lawyer.

The advantage is obvious: an experienced disability lawyer knows how the Social Security Administration works and understands exactly what your case needs. Because the lawyer knows what the Administrative Law Judge is looking for, they can prepare you for your hearing — teaching you what your testimony should cover and how to best explain the limitations caused by your disability.

Most Social Security Disability Applications Are Denied

Although filing the application for Social Security disability benefits is relatively easy, that does not mean the claim will be approved. Unfortunately, roughly two-thirds of Social Security disability applications are denied at the initial application stage.

The next step is to request a reconsideration of the claim — but only about 15% of claims are approved at the reconsideration stage.

This shows why persistence matters so much in a Social Security disability claim. You should never give up after a denial, because the best chance for an award of benefits comes at the appeal stage. Over half of Social Security disability claims that reach an appeal hearing are ultimately granted, and the claimant is finally awarded disability benefits.

You Can Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer at Any Time

Some people prefer to file their own Social Security disability application. Others want legal help right away, even at this beginning stage.

The choice is yours. An attorney can become involved at either point: when filing the application, or after the application has been denied.

A Disability Lawyer Can Go With You to the Social Security Appeal Hearing

When your application has been denied and you appeal, you are given a hearing before a judge. You and your lawyer appear in person, and you have the opportunity to explain how your disability limits your ability to work.

Although the hearing is held before a judge and you attend with an attorney, it is very different from a court proceeding. Some of the differences are:

  • It is not an adversarial proceeding. There is no opposing side and no attorney arguing against your case. It is simply you and your attorney presenting your case to the judge.
  • The location is more informal than a courtroom. Social Security disability hearings are typically held in ordinary conference rooms.
  • The procedure is informal. Unlike court proceedings with rigid evidence and procedural rules, a Social Security appeal hearing has a relaxed atmosphere that allows you and your lawyer to speak directly with the Administrative Law Judge and explain your disability.

Help Is Available for Your Miami Social Security Disability Claim

You do not have to handle your Florida Social Security disability claim alone.

If you are not already represented by a Florida Social Security disability lawyer, consider requesting a free evaluation of your claim. Simply provide a brief description of your situation using the form on this page, and you will be connected with an experienced disability professional who can help.