It is not mandatory that you hire a disability lawyer to help at your hearing. However, it is a fact that a seasoned disability lawyer in Lake County can double your chances of winning your claim on appeal.
If your initial claim is denied, the first level of appeal is a request for reconsideration. As little has changed, chances of the decision being overturned at this stage are remote. The next step is a hearing in the presence of an Administrative Law Judge. It is at this stage when a disability lawyer can be very helpful.
There are many good reasons for engaging the professional services of a disability lawyer:
Gathering pertinent medical records:
Nothing is more important when claiming disability benefits than supporting medical records. If these records are incomplete or inconsistent, the Administrative Law Judge will most likely deny your claim. Gathering and assessing all your medical records is perhaps the most significant service your disability lawyer will perform. Not only will your lawyer be familiar with where to get your records, but he or she will also know if they are current or need updating.
Getting the opinion of your doctor:
A disability lawyer in Lake County will contact your doctor and obtain a written opinion about your inability to work. Should your medical history be such that it cannot support your claim, your lawyer can arrange for additional psychological or physical tests.
Preparing for the hearing:
Although the hearing in the presence of the ALJ is quite informal, it can still be nerve-wracking. Your lawyer has helped many clients through their hearing and is familiar with the procedure; once you know what to expect you are far less likely to commit an error during the hearing.
Your disability lawyer knows from experience what questions to expect and will ensure that you are prepared to answer the questions forcefully and honestly.
If your claim for Social Security benefits was denied you should consider hiring a disability lawyer in Lake County. For a free evaluation of your case, contact The Law Offices of Rabin, Kodner & Brown.
