When you have a disability that prevents you from working, receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can help. But with the application and appeals process being complicated, you don’t want to waste your time trying to figure it out yourself, only to have your claim rejected. That’s where an SSD lawyer can come in.. But before you hire just anyone, here are some important questions to ask.
1. Do you specialize in disability law and cases such as mine?
The first thing that you want to be sure of is that the attorney whom you’re considering is experienced in this area of law. While any attorney can say they can help, with the intricacies surrounding filing for SSD benefits, it’s important that the individual you hire has experience with SSD law and focuses a large part of his or her practice on the area. You will be at a unique advantage is a law firm that focuses ints entire practice on disability law. Furthermore, it’s also good to ensure that he or she has experience with cases such as yours. If you have schizophrenia you would want a lawyer who is familiar with the requirements of such a claim.
2. How many years of experience do you have?
It’s important to find an SSD attorney who has experience representing disability clients and knows the intricacies of disability law. It’s in your best interest to choose an experienced SSD attorney because he or she will help you at every step, and your chances of success are higher.
3. What are your fees?
When you’re already struggling with the inability to work due to your disability, you may already have financial difficulties. Therefore the idea of having to pay huge sums of money to a lawyer can seem daunting to say the least. That’s why it’s important to ask the attorney about their fees.
Most reputable SSD attorneys will not charge you upfront. They will only charge you if they win your case and then will take their fees out of the backcheck you receive.
4. Will you stay in contact with me the entire time?
If your initial application has been denied and your appeal has been as well, getting assigned a hearing date can take months – or even up to two years. For this reason, you will want to find an SSD attorney who will regularly be in touch over this period of time and who will keep you updated as to the status. You want to know that your attorney won’t just disappear during this time.
The Disability Attorneys of Michigan Can Help
Applying for SSD benefits can be complicated and overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced disability lawyer Give us a call today for a free consultation at 800-701-5524.