how to choose a disability lawyer

What to Look for in a Disability Advocate.

• Experience. Social Security disability work is a specialized area of the law. An attorney who hasn’t ever handled this type of case – or who has only ...
• A Game Plan.
• Communication and Professionalism.
• Case Management.
• References.

Full Answer

Do I need a lawyer to represent me at a disability hearing?

May 02, 2021 · What to Look for in a Disability Advocate. Experience. Social Security disability work is a specialized area of the law. An attorney who hasn’t ever handled this type of case – or who has only ... A Game Plan. Communication and …

How do I find a good disability lawyer?

Aug 26, 2019 · The attorney’s fee has to be approved by the Social Security judge and is taken out of your back pay for social security disability benefits. If you don’t get an award of benefits then you don’t owe anything to the attorney you’re working with. Attorney fees are capped at 25% or a maximum of $6,000. After the initial 25% payment of back ...

What makes a good disability law firm?

How to Choose a Disability Attorney 1. Does This Attorney Know Social Security Inside and Out? Disability law is somewhat of a specialty. Lawyers that do... 2. Is This Lawyer Local? You might see commercials for lawyers on TV wearing cowboy hats and loudly declaring things... 3. …

Should I hire a Social Security Attorney for my claim?

Professionalism and Courtesy. When you call a potential attorney, pay attention to the level of professionalism and treatment you are given by the ... Attorney Access. Promises of Outcomes. Approval Rates. Office and Case Management.

Questions to Ask Your Potential Disability Lawyers

Don’t forget to ask these important questions. These questions will help you vet your potential best disability lawyers choices.

Where are you licensed to practice law?

Asking the most basic questions is key. Ask them if they are licensed to practice law in your jurisdiction. If you’ve found an attorney that you like but they aren’t able to take care of your claim because of where you’re located — you’re wasting your time.

Should I start my claim over?

When you speak to a good disability lawyer, they will be able to tell you if you need to start over all the way or they can help you continue your claim. Allowing the attorney to take the entire case over can be the least overwhelming for you.

How large of a percentage of approvals are the hearing level?

Going to court can be a major hassle. Finding out how many claims have to go to court when working with this firm will give you an idea of how likely your case will have to go to court.

What percentage of wins get full benefits & what percentage get partial benefits?

A reputable firm will be able to share these stats. If they can’t tell you these things or if they seem uncomfortable sharing this information — pass.

Professionalism & Customer Service

When you’re working with an attorney, you’re likely to have many questions. The attorney should never treat you like you’re an annoyance.

Outcome Promises

Look out for outcome promises. Attorneys cannot and should not promise outcomes.

What is disability law?

Disability law is somewhat of a specialty. Lawyers that do not practice mostly Social Security law are unlikely to be very familiar with the complex Social Security Disability and SSI regulations. You wouldn't hire a heart doctor to treat your back, and the same goes for law. Look for attorneys that belong to professional groups like the National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR) to determine which ones are really up to date on Social Security law. Other attorneys just wouldn't know how to question you at your disaiblity hearing or how to challenge the testimony of vocational expert witnesses.

Do disability lawyers get paid?

And your attorney will only get paid if you are awarded benefits.

What does a good attorney do?

A good attorney will give you an honest assessment of your case only after reviewing the facts. A good attorney will also admit that he or she probably can't get you approved any faster than you could on your own. Here is a sample question you should ask and a sample answer a good attorney should give you:

Do disability firms keep in touch?

Even though disability firms are busy places, you should be provided with a contact person who you can rely on to answer your questions. The firm should also keep in touch with you on a regular basis. Here are some questions you should ask to get an idea of how your case will be handled:

Does Nolo have a disability license?

Nolo has confirmed that every listed attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with their bar association.

Should You Hire a Disability Lawyer?

Hiring a disability lawyer to help you secure disability benefits isn’t required. But having someone to help you navigate the litigation process can be very helpful. You’re also more likely to receive benefits if someone who specializes in long-term disability law represents you.

How Do I Know If I Can Trust My Disability Lawyer?

It’s a good start to choose disability insurance lawyers that specialize in long-term disability claims. Having an experienced team on your side that has a high approval rate for long-term disability cases is important.

Need Representation for Your Long-Term Disability?

If you become injured or sick and need to file for long-term disability benefits, it’s in your best interest to hire a disability lawyer. The process of securing long-term disability benefits can be difficult if you don’t have any experience doing so.

What is ERISA insurance?

ERISA stands for the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, the federal law that regulates employee benefits. If your disability insurance policy is available through your employer, then your plan is governed by ERISA.

Is disability insurance complicated?

Disability insurance law is deeply complicated. This works almost entirely in favor of the insurance companies. With so many rules and regulations to keep up with, it’s essential to have a disability lawyer who knows what to expect and has the track record to prove it.