Can A Social Security Disability Attorney Help Me File A Claim
-
Disabled workers can file their own claim or a Social Security disability attorney can help you file a claim. After you find a Social Security disability attorney, your lawyer can advise you of your rights and options, help you compile the medical records necessary to support your claim, and file the claim with the appropriate Social Security Administration office near Birmingham, Alabama. If your claim is denied, your experienced attorney can handle the appeal to make sure you get the benefits you deserve.
Need an attorney in Birmingham, Alabama?
-
FindLaw’s Lawyer Directory is the largest online directory of attorneys. Browse more than one million listings, covering everything from criminal defense to personal injury to estate planning.
Detailed law firm profiles have information like the firm’s area of law, office location, office hours, and payment options. Attorney profiles include the biography, education and training, and client recommendations of an attorney to help you decide who to hire.
Use the contact form on the profiles to connect with a Birmingham, Alabama attorney for legal advice.
Social Security Disability Lawyers Birmingham Al
When you or a loved one becomes disabled and can no longer work, the panic is almost immediate. Heath concerns and the trepidations about paying the bills set in. And, such anxiety only intensifies when you begin to examine the process of filing for Social Security Disability benefits. The rules and procedures can be intimidating and overwhelming.
However, it does not have to be. Hiring the right lawyer to help is key.
At Lloyd & Hogan, we know the stress you are facing and are here to mitigate such concerns. We are experienced attorneys who represent individuals in Birmingham, Alabama, in matters related to Social Security Disability claims.
Glowing Reviews From Former Clients
When you need legal representation, it is vital to conduct online research. You should never simply hire the first law firm resulting from an internet search engine.
Reading reviews from former clients is an excellent way to anticipate your own experience with a specific firm. Because of our sterling track record and client-centered approach, our firm boasts countless positive reviews.
You will find that Morgan and Morgans former clients love us because they know that our legal professionals will fight diligently in their best interests. Our firms clients have experienced our teams tireless dedication to securing justice for them. Because of this, our clients have many wonderful things to say.
People who suffer personal injuries from an accident often wonder if its worth seeking help from a lawyer. They might be concerned about the cost, fearing that theyll spend a lot of money on legal services with an uncertain outcome.
While some lawyers bill by the hour, that isnt normal in personal injury law. Personal injury lawyers charge based on a contingency fee arrangement. Under a contingency fee agreement, the lawyer receives a percentage of the final award or court verdict in exchange for their services.
One of the first questions we often hear at Morgan & Morgan when a new client enters our office is, How long will this take?
Read Also: Social Security Disability Extra Benefits
How Long Does A Social Security Disability Review Take
If youre required to complete a Social Security Disability Review, theyll usually send you a short-form or a long-form review application. The process for the long-form usually takes four to six months, though it may a bit shorter or longer depending on the circumstances. The short-form review often takes one to three months, give or take. For both versions of the review youll need to provide some requested documentation about your identity and disability, and information about your work history. In the long-form version, you many need to provide more extensive medical records and will have additional forms to fill out. In both cases, you may be asked to participate in periodic follow ups.
The Social Security Disability Appeals Process
Most SSD applications are initially denied. Fortunately, there is an appeal process available that offers a good chance for ultimate success well over half of initial denials are later reversed. Unfortunately, the process can be complicated, intimidating, and very difficult to successfully navigate without the assistance of an attorney who specializes in Social Security claims.
Recommended Reading: Chances Of Winning Disability In Federal Court
Filing A Lawsuit In United States District Court For The Northern District Of Alabama
This is the final option to appeal a decision to deny your benefits. Your case wont be heard in front of a jury, but you will need legal representation. The attorneys of Mezrano Law Firm are admitted to practice in every federal court in Alabama so that we can present your case to the judge. The most common outcome is not to overrule the ALJ but to remand the claim to the ALJ.
Understand that it can take years before your case gets to this point, especially if you try to do it independently. Working with Birmingham Social Security Disability lawyers can help speed the process and hopefully eliminate the need to file a lawsuit altogether.
Social Security Lawyers In Birmingham
Our Birmingham, Alabama team at Wettermark Keith are compassionate, knowledgeable experts with years of experience in disability law. Our law firm was founded on the idea that no person should be without help if they need it, and 20 years later, we will believe in that vision.
We believe in our quality of legal service so much that you wont pay anything until weve won your case. We have helped many people get approved for disability payments, and were confident we could help you, too.
Your Wettermark Keith social security lawyer in Birmingham is ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation!
Also Check: Heart Failure Disability Living Allowance
What Happens If My Ssdi Application Is Rejected
If your SSDI application is denied, you have the option to appeal. Youll only have 60 days to begin your appeals process, so its important not to wait too long. You can begin the appeal process by applying online, and youll have a few options for what kind of appeal to do. If you disagree with their assessment of your disability, you can request reconsideration and youll get a new review completed by different people. You could also opt to have a hearing before an administrative judge, an appeals council, or in some cases, a federal court, to explain why you believe your case was wrongly denied.
When Should I Hire A Social Security Attorney
Ideally, you should hire a Social Security attorney the first time you apply for Social Security benefits. Experienced lawyers know what to include on your application to make it more likely to be accepted. However, if your claim has already been denied, you should absolutely seek out the help of an attorney. Their help can make the difference between an accepted appeal and a denied one. Below are some specific situations in which you should absolutely seek a Social Security disability attorney.
Application Help for Social Security
Social Security disability lawyers do more than just protecting your rights. Expert lawyers can also help file Social Security applications that truthfully and effectively describe your condition in order to get you the compensation you deserve. Additionally, the paperwork and fine print of disability law can be difficult to understand. Getting the help of an attorney can make your experience claiming Social Security significantly less stressful.
Social Security Claim Was Denied
Having your SSDI claim denied is devastating and discouraging, but it doesnt have to end that way. Making an appeal is the next logical step for those still needing compensation, but making an appeal without legal help could set you up for more disappointment. Instead, seek the help of a Social Security attorney, and youll have an expert on your side.
Social Security Options
Recommended Reading: Guardian Short Term Disability Claim
Birmingham Alabama Disability Attorneys
Compare 18 attorneys and 9 law firms in Birmingham , AL. Sort by highest rating and years of disability experience.
85 Bagby Drive, Suite 334, Birmingham, AL 35209
2 North 20th Street, Suite 700, Birmingham, AL 35203
2801 University Boulevard, Suite 302, Birmingham, AL 35233
2700 Highway 280 S, Suite 450, E, Birmingham, AL 35223
2 North 20th Street, Suite 700, Birmingham, AL 35203
2 North 20th Street, Suite 700, Birmingham, AL 35203
2 North 20th Street, Suite 700, Birmingham, AL 35203
100 Vestavia Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35216
2801 Highway 280 South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL 35223
100 Vestavia Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35216
2100 1st Avenue North, Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35203
2700 Highway 280 S, Suite 450, E, Birmingham, AL 35223
2 North 20th Street, Suite 700, Birmingham, AL 35203
2100 1st Avenue North, Suite 300, Birmingham, AL 35203
2700 Highway 280 S, Suite 450, E, Birmingham, AL 35223
2700 Highway 280 S, Suite 450, E, Birmingham, AL 35223
100 Vestavia Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35216
What Is Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability is a government program that provides financial aid to diabled individuals. To receive compensation, you must prove that you cannot do work due to an impairment. There are two programs of Social Security for which you can apply: SSDI and SSI.
Social Security Disability Insurance
Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is paid into by working individuals and is reserved for individuals who are no longer able to work for various reasons.
Supplemental Security Income
Social Security Income, or SSI, are funds available only on an as-needed basis for those with limited resources.
You May Like: How To Calculate Disability Benefits
Can I Afford A Birmingham Social Security Disability Attorney
Yes, you can. Mezrano Law Firm takes these cases on contingency. Therefore, you will pay nothing for our services until we win your case. Then, we take a percentage of your total back-payment award to cover our fees and costs. If you are denied back-pay, we receive nothing.
Also, the federal government prohibits SSD attorneys from taking more than 25% of your total award and only up to $6,000. So, if you are awarded $10,000 in back-pay for benefits, our social security attorneys would be entitled to $2,500 of the total. Everything else is yours, and we cannot collect any further payments for future benefits.
What Is The Difference Between Ssdi And Ssi
Social Security Insurance differs from SSDI in a few ways. SSDI typically pays more, but has stricter eligibility criteria. Whereas SSDI generally only applies to people who have worked before and have severe disability, SSI can apply to people who are over the age of 65, legally blind, or who have a severe disability. However, people who meet those qualifications arent eligible for SSI unless theyre also on very limited income. Those who receive SSI will usually qualify for Medicaid soon after theyre approved for SSI, but SSDI recipients may need to wait about two years for Medicaid.
Recommended Reading: Social Security Disability Mental Health
Are You Searching For A Top Social Security Disability Lawyer In Birmingham Alabama
Through the Super Lawyers directory, we index attorneys who practice quality and excellence in their work. It is easy to browse social security disability attorney listings in your immediate area, search for a specific individual referred by a friend, or start narrowing your search by practice area.
When you find attorneys who interest you, spend time and explore their profiles. There you will find the social security disability attorney’s contact, education, and biographical information to supplement your research. Where possible, our profiles will also include links to the social security disability lawyer’s personal biography, firm website, and other relevant information to consider.
Are you ready to take action? The contact form on an attorneys profile makes it easy to connect with a lawyer serving Birmingham, Alabama, and seek legal advice.
We Help You Determine If You Have A Case
The first step is determining whether an employee has a disability as defined under the law. The ADA defines disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity. An impairment may be physiological, mental or psychological. Major life activities include things like walking, seeing and breathing.
Since the early 1990s, federal courts have identified additional major life activities such as sitting, standing, bending, communicating, lifting, reaching, sleeping, eating, reading and mental/emotional processes such as thinking, concentrating and interacting with others. All of these major life activities mentioned above are now specifically included in the ADA definition of major life activities due to the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 .
In addition, Congress broadened the definition of major life activities to include the operation of major bodily functions, such as: the functions of the immune system normal cell growth and digestive, bowel, bladder, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine and reproductive functions.
The next consideration is whether the disability substantially impairs that activity. Medical documentation is a good starting point for determining disability since it may include information on limitations related to an impairment.
Don’t Miss: How Va Disability Is Calculated
Understanding Va Compensation Rates
A veteran who qualifies for disability benefits does not have to be totally disabled in order to receive compensation. VA allows for partial compensation, based on a scale for combined disability ratings.
As of December 1st, 2021 the VA disability rate benefit amounts are as follows:
- 0 percent disability rating: $0.00 per month
- 10 percent disability rating: $152.64 per month
- 20 percent disability rating: $301.74 per month
- 30 percent disability rating: $467.39 per month
- 40 percent disability rating: $673.28 per month
- 50 percent disability rating: $958.44 per month
- 60 percent disability rating: $1,214.03 per month
- 70 percent disability rating: $1,529.95 per month
- 80 percent disability rating: $1,778.43 per month
- 90 percent disability rating: $1,998.52 per month
- 100 percent disability rating: $3,332.06 per month
Top Questions To Ask When Hiring An Attorney
- How many years have you been practicing law? How long have you practiced law in the local area?
- How many cases similar to mine have you handled in the past?
- What is the likely outcome for my case?
In legal practice, experience matters. An experienced attorney will likely have handled issues similar to yours many, many times. Therefore, after listening to your situation, the attorney should have a reasonable idea of the time line for a case like yours and the likely resolution.
Don’t Miss: Applying For Disability New York
You Are Unable To Work
The Social Security Administration will first check whether or not you are working. If you are and earn more than $1,220 a month, you will not be eligible for benefits. If you are not working, the SSA will look to see if you could go back to that work or if you could do another type of work. If you can, then you will probably be denied benefits.
How To Prepare For Your Initial Consultation
Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Off Disability And Back To Work
How We Handle Cases
The first line of communication between you and the firm will be with one of our receptionists who refer clients to the Case Control Department. There, one of over 100 full-time team members will ask you some initial questions regarding your potential claim. The interview will generally last between 15 and 30 minutes.
The next step is to make an appointment for a sign-up interview. We are willing to work around your schedule. If it is inconvenient for you to meet us in one of our office locations, we will travel to your home, work, or the medical facility where you or your loved one has been hospitalized. Since we employ more than 25 full-time field service investigators, someone should be able to meet with you within a day or two. In situations where time is of the essence, we are often able to send an investigator out within 24 hours.
After you have completed the preliminary interview process, you will be directed to the appropriate department. For example, if you have been involved in a car accident, you will be referred to an attorney who deals in car accident disputes. Once your claim reaches the proper department, its validity will be evaluated by one of five department heads. The department head then decides which attorney within that unit is the best fit for your case. Typically, a client will be assigned an attorney, legal assistant, and a paralegal within a week of initial contact.
Common Reasons Birmingham Al Long Term Disability Claims Are Denied
There are many reasons a long-term disability claim could be denied. Your policy may exclude claims for pre-existing conditions, though the definition of pre-existing varies between policies. Your claim may also be denied if you fail to provide information within the requested time frame. If you need more time, be sure to communicate that to the insurance company before the deadline. You may even be granted an extension of time to produce the requested evidence.
Claims are also denied when the claimant does not meet actively at work status. Lets look at Cheney v. Standard Insurance: a federal court case that will help you understand how disability law is applied by the court.
Cheney, a 20-year attorney at Kirkland & Ellis, had C-5 neck surgery in 2012. She last worked December 9, 2011, and claimed disability starting December 20, 2011, onward. When she went out on disability she first used two weeks of accrued vacation through to January 3, 2012. Then, she was granted six months of leave to extend through July 2012.
You May Like: Supplemental Long-term Disability Insurance