Why Disabled Workers Should Hire a Social Security Disability Lawyer
August 21, 2018In the U.S., the vast majority of workers are eligible to receive Social Security disability when injury or illness leaves them unable to work. Despite this eligibility, many individuals who need assistance do not get it.
If you or a loved one are disabled, it is okay to ask for help. In fact, it is encouraged. Getting the assistance you need is the best thing for your family. And while most disabled workers recognize that they are in need of financial assistance, receiving legal assistance for your Social Security disability claim can be just as important.
When Disabled Workers Should Contact a Lawyer
As a general rule, if you think you may need a lawyer you should contact one as soon as possible. Disability cases are no different.
Many individuals attempt to apply for Social Security disability themselves. Many do so because they do not think they need an attorney unless their application is denied. However, waiting until a denial to hire an attorney is not recommended.
If Possible, Contact an Attorney Prior to Applying for Disability
The application process is arduous and typically requires meticulously developing the evidence and records to support the underlying claim. In the best situations, individuals still must thoroughly prove they are entitled to disability benefits by supporting evidence of the disability, its permanence and severity, and that all required testing and treatment options have been explored.
In more difficult situations, individuals must do all of the above while also building a case that an unlisted injury or illness should qualify as a covered disability, that several non-qualifying conditions cumulatively qualify as a disability, or that a denied application was wrongfully denied on evidentiary or legal grounds.
Creating a thorough and strong application requires time and effort that most disabled workers will find exhausting. Moreover, the legal questions relating to a disability application tend to be poorly understood by non-lawyer applicants. Hiring experience legal counsel prior to applying can help expedite your application process and present your case for assistance in the best, most beneficial way.
Always Contact an Attorney Immediately If Your Application is Denied
If you have had your application denied, do not panic. Applications are denied quite frequently, and you are entitled to an appeal. Now more than ever, though, it is essential that you contact an experienced attorney.
The appeals process for disability claims is far more legal and technical in nature than the initial application process. Preparing for your appeal requires combatting, through arguments and evidence, the Social Security Administration’s erroneous opinion that you are not entitled to assistance. An appeal hearing is not unlike a courtroom situation, and requires similar precision, preparation, and legal knowledge.
Individuals appealing a disability denial are strongly encouraged to seek out qualified counsel.
Ohio Social Security Disability Attorneys are Available to Help You
With a full-service disability, workers’ compensation, and personal injury practice, Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA has the resources and expertise to help disabled workers recover all compensation and assistance available to them. Call or email and let us help you and your family.