It is critical to the success of your claim that you be properly prepared for your hearing.
If you have been denied Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at the initial application level and reconsideration appeal level then the next step in the appeals process is a Social Security Disability Hearing. This hearing is where you will have your best chance at winning your disability claim. It is critical to the success of your claim that you be properly prepared for your hearing.
Professional Representation
The first thing you should know is that your chances of winning your disability hearing are much higher if you are represented by a qualified disability attorney. Without professional representation, many valid claims are denied because the evidence is presented in an unorganized manner without consideration to the methodology that Social Security uses to understand and approve claims. I have been arguing cases before the Social Security Administration for over a decade and I often receive phone calls from people who have been sent away from their hearing by the Judge to get an attorney. The Judge’s do this to protect you. After waiting 2 to 3 years for a hearing, you can’t afford to take the chance of self-representation in these cases. When I take cases, I enter into a partnership with my clients. I only receive a fee if we can get you your Social Security Disability or SSI benefits approved. I work this way because it always allows you and me to have the exact same goal; your approval!
Be on Time
It is important to attend your hearing and that you are on time. Here are a few tips to help ensure that you are on time to your hearing:
* Have transportation to your hearing
* Know the date and time that your hearing is scheduled
* Know where your hearing is to be held (visit the location beforehand if possible)
* Plan for the possibility of slow traffic or an accident blocking traffic.
Updated Medical Records
Make sure the judge who is hearing your case has updated medical records. The Judge at your hearing does not request new medical records from your doctors. The Judge will only have the medical records that were obtained by Disability Determination Services when your application was being evaluated by them (during the initial application and reconsideration appeal). If you are represented by us at Jorgensen Law, we will obtain statements and up to date medical records from your doctor(s) in preparation for your hearing. We make copies of these documents for the judge.
Know Your History
During your hearing, you might be asked questions about your work history or medical history. You might find it difficult to recall details such as dates, names, places, etc. Before your hearing, you should review your work history and medical history. It will be important for you to know where you worked, the dates you worked and what you did. It will also be important for you to know the places you have received medical treatment, the procedures you have had performed and the conditions that you have been diagnosed with. You should also be prepared to answer questions about how your disability has limited your ability to work.
Contact Us
Whether you have a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge and need someone to help argue your case at the hearing, or you need help at the initial application or appeal stages, I would really like to represent you. Whether your hearing is one day or 2 years away, I will take the necessary steps to ensure you receive your best chance of success.
Please call me for a free consultation at 1-888-855-2948, or contact us by e-mail.
We represent clients throughout the state of California. Some of the cities that are served by our office in San Diego include: Bonita, Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Coronado, Del Mar, Downtown San Diego, El Cajon, El Centro, Encinitas, Escondido, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Mission Valley, National City, Oceanside, Poway, Ramona, San Diego, San Marcos, Santee, Solana Beach, and Vista.