Applying for disability benefits is a difficult process. Hiring a good attorney to work with for Social Security Disability (SSD) can make it easier to win the benefits you need.
At the Disability Advantage Group, we have helped many clients receive approval for monthly benefits. Call us today at 865-566-0800 for a free review of your claim.
What Credentials Should My Attorney Have?
Your representative in a disability claim is not required to have any special licensure or credentials. In fact, you can seek representation from someone who is not even at attorney. However, a licensed attorney with the right credentials typically has a better understanding of the process and can guide you to more favorable results.
To determine what credentials an attorney has, you might consider asking the following questions before you hire them:
- How long have you practiced disability law?
- In which states are you licensed?
- What types of special training have you undergone?
- How many disability cases do you handle each year?
- How familiar are you with the administrative law judges (ALJs) in the area?
It is beneficial to work with an attorney who understands and has relationships with the local ALJs, as different judges review disability appeals in different ways. An attorney who knows what to expect from a certain judge going into the process can better help prepare your claim.
Our attorneys have experience navigating the application process and helping clients who received a denial appeal their cases. If necessary, we can help you schedule a disability hearing with an ALJ to appeal your case.
What Kind of Success Rate Should I Look For?
No disability attorney can guarantee a certain outcome in your case. If you locate a lawyer that does offer a guarantee, it is a bad a sign, as it indicates a lack of honesty. However, knowing a particular attorney’s success rate with disability claims can help you make a confident decision in choosing them.
In addition to asking an attorney’s approval rate, you might consider breaking the question down into more specific queries, such as:
- How many approvals did you win at the hearing level?
- What percentage of your approvals is for full benefits versus partial benefits?
We have a successful track record of winning benefits for our clients. If you are disabled, we can fight for benefits on your behalf.
Does an Attorney’s Support Staff Matter for My Claim?
Even the best attorney can be difficult to work with if they lack the support staff to handle your claim in an efficient manner. A good disability attorney has staff members in place that can answer your questions, respond to your concerns, and gather documents in a fast and efficient manner so you do not have to wait longer than necessary to receive benefits.
Questions to ask a prospective attorney include:
- Will I have my own case manager or point of contact?
- What is your ratio of clients to attorneys?
- How many paralegals and legal assistants do you have on staff?
- Will my initial consultation be with an attorney?
Our support staff works hard to handle the legwork of each disability case we accept. Our team of helpful professionals can handle your case.
How Can I Gauge Customer Service?
While you should not expect to speak with an attorney every time you call to check on your case, it is reasonable to expect more than talking to voicemail or a call center. Before hiring an attorney, ask about the firm’s customer service. In particular, ask how quickly you can expect to receive a return phone call or email, and who your main point of contact will be within the firm.
While your lawyer will likely delegate some tasks to the firm’s support staff, you still deserve regular access. Your attorney should be more than a mythical figure you hear about but never actually see or talk to. You need access to your attorney for the initial case review and to address any important questions that come up.
At the Disability Advantage Group, we want you to stay informed about your case. Our staff is available to answer your questions so you understand where we are in the process.
How Can I Set up a Free Consultation With a Disability Attorney?
At the Disability Advantage Group, our attorneys focus on disability law, and we have a long track record of positive outcomes for our clients. We want to put our resources to work for you.
We handle disability cases on a contingency basis, so you will not have to pay until we win your claim. To schedule a free consultation with a member of our legal team, call 865-566-0800 today.