Many Social Security Disability applicants wonder at exactly which point of the Social Security Disability application and appeal process they should consider the services of a qualified Social Security Disability attorney. Some applicants wonder if they are even allowed to have an attorney during all stages of the Social Security Disability claim and appeal process. The truth is, not only are you allowed to have an attorney during all stages of the process, but hiring an attorney is often beneficial and increases your chances of being awarded the Social Security Disability benefits you are in need of.
Why Is It Important to Have an Attorney During the Initial Stage of the Application Process?
The Social Security Disability claim process can be confusing and overwhelming. There are many forms to fill out and each of these forms must be filled out properly. You also must ensure that you provide the SSA with enough objective medical evidence to prove the severity of your disability. If you do not, your claim is likely to be denied. This will result in the need for a disability appeal – a process that can take months or even years to complete. With the services of a disability attorney, you can be sure that your claim forms are filled out properly and that your initial disability application is submitted to the SSA in the best light possible.
Do I Need An Attorney to File a Request for Reconsideration and Attend a Disability Hearing?
While you technically do not need an attorney to file a Request for Reconsideration, it is in your best interests to have one since you should be retaining the services of an attorney during the initial stage of the application process. When an attorney is representing you during the initial application stage, that attorney will naturally file your Request for Reconsideration for you.
In regards to a disability hearing, you are most definitely allowed one and should not attend your hearing without one. The chances of you successfully overturning the SSA’s decision to deny your disability benefits are significantly decreased without proper legal representation.
Choosing the right Disability Attorney
It is important to note that not all attorneys will represent a client during the initial stage of the disability application process, even though this representation can be crucial to the outcome of your claim. Because of this, it is important that you find an attorney who will not require that you wait for a denial of your initial application and will be willing to help you through each stage of the initial application and appeal process, thereby increasing your chances of a successful outcome each step of the way. When contacting a Social Security Disability attorney, make sure that he or she will help you with your initial disability application and if he or she is not, look for another attorney who will.
