Disability Attorney vs. Non-Attorney Representative

Attorneys can represent you in any area of the law, whereas non-attorney representatives are only able to represent you in regards to a disability claim (SSDI or SSI).

Jean, from Escondido California, asks “Is it better to have a Disability Attorney or Non-Attorney Rep, and what is the difference?”

Non-attorney disability representatives or Attorneys can represent you in your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) case.

A well experienced non-attorney representative can be just as good as an experienced disability attorney at assisting you in your disability claim and even represent you in a disability hearing. Both non-attorney reps and attorneys should have a good understanding of the rules that govern the Social Security Disability process. However, it is worth noting that attorneys have undergone significant education and are trained in interpretation of the law whereas a non-attorney representative is not required to have a college education. Attorneys can represent you in any area of the law, whereas non-attorney representatives are only able to represent you in regards to a disability claim (SSDI or SSI).

The fee is usually the same for an attorney or non-attorney representative. The fee is regulated by the Social Security Administration.

Ideally, it is best to make sure that your representative (attorney or non-attorney) is well experienced and specializes in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability claims.

If you have been denied disability benefits or if you have questions about applying for disability, Click Here to contact a disability attorney in the San Diego, Los Angeles or Riverside areas; Serving all of Southern California.