Social Security Disability Lawyers and Attorneys

These attorneys handle claims for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income: initial applications, reconsideration, hearings before an administrative law judge, Appeals Council review and federal court appeals. Many also handle continuing disability reviews and overpayment disputes.

Most initial applications are denied, and the hearing stage is where representation makes the largest difference. The case is proved with medical evidence measured against the agency's own listings and its assessment of what work you can still perform.

Before you hire

• Appeal every denial within the deadline rather than starting a new application. Restarting can cost you months of back benefits.
• Fees are set by federal rules — normally a capped percentage of past-due benefits, approved by the agency — so there is no fee if you do not win.
• Keep treating. Gaps in medical records are the single most common reason otherwise strong claims fail.
• Ask how many hearings the representative personally attends each year before your ALJ office.

Workers' compensation and veterans' benefits sit nearby; elder law covers long-term care funding.