How to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Social Security Disability Appeal with a Lawyer's Help

If you've been denied Social Security Disability benefits, don't give up hope. Hiring a Social Security Disability lawyer can significantly increase your chances of winning your appeal. Here are some tips on how a lawyer can help you with your Social Security Disability appeal.

1. Collecting Medical Evidence

One of the most critical aspects of a Social Security Disability appeal is medical evidence. A skilled Social Security Disability lawyer can help you gather all relevant medical records, including doctor's notes, lab results, and imaging studies. Your attorney can also help you obtain statements from your treating physicians about your disability's severity, limitations, and how it affects your ability to work.

2. Representing You at Your Hearing

If your appeal is not resolved at the initial reconsideration stage, you'll need to attend a hearing. A Social Security Disability lawyer can represent you at this hearing and present your case in the best possible light. Your attorney can also question witnesses, including vocational experts, to show that your disability prevents you from working.

3. Preparing Your Testimony

A Social Security Disability appeals hearing can be intimidating, but an experienced lawyer can help you prepare by reviewing the questions that the judge is likely to ask and coaching you on how to answer them. Your lawyer can also help you develop a strategy for presenting your case, including highlighting your strongest evidence and addressing any weaknesses.

4. Appealing to the Appeals Council

If you're denied benefits at the hearing level, you may be able to appeal to the Appeals Council. A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you prepare your appeal by identifying errors in the Administrative Law Judge's decision and presenting legal arguments that support your claim.

5. Filing a Lawsuit

If your appeal is denied at the Appeals Council, your last resort is to file a lawsuit in court. A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you file this lawsuit and represent you. Your attorney can also argue that the Social Security Administration's decision was unsupported by evidence or violated your rights.

Winning a Social Security Disability appeal is challenging, but hiring a lawyer can significantly improve your chances. At Rubin & Badame, Attorneys at Law, P.C., we have helped many clients win their appeals and obtain the benefits they deserve.