How to Find Reputable Social Security Attorneys
If you have a disability that prevents you from working, you may be entitled to Social Security disability payments. Unfortunately, these types of claims can be complicated. You have to fill out numerous forms and provide documentation about the nature of your disability and why you are unable to work. If anything is filled out incorrectly or you do not provide the right information, the claim can be kicked back. Social Security attorneys can step in at the beginning of a claim or after a claim has been denied, helping you get the benefits you may legally be entitled to. Keep reading if you want to learn some of the tips that can help you find a reputable Social Security attorney.
Do an Online Search
One of the most obvious ways to find Social Security attorneys is through an online search. When searching online, you can find lawyers who are located close to your location. This is especially important for those who are disabled. It may be challenging to go long distances. Online searches allow you to see where a lawyer's office is located and how close to you it is. From there, you can do an online search to learn about their reputation from past clients.
Look for Advocacy Groups
There are many advocacy groups out there that can help those who are disabled find legal services for Social Security reasons. One of the largest groups is the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives. There are smaller groups that may operate in your county, city, or state. If you are unsure if there are advocacy groups in your area, call 211 on your phone. They can help put you in touch with any local Social Security advocacy groups in your area, who, in turn, can put you in touch with reputable Social Security attorneys.
Talk to People Who Have Had to Hire This Type of Attorney
According to the Social Security Administration, nearly nine out of 10 people age 65 and older received Social Security benefits in 2023. While not every one of these individuals needed to hire an attorney, some of them did. This means there is a good possibility that you may know someone who used an attorney to get Social Security benefits. If you are searching for Social Security attorneys, ask friends or family members who have gone through the process who they used and if they would recommend that lawyer or law firm to you.
Ensure They Offer the Services You Need
Social Security attorneys can help you get the benefits you may be entitled to. But, not every law firm offers the same services or can assist in the same way. Some focus on intake or new claims, some focus on first appeals, and some can help with hearings, helping present a case if your initial intake and appeal have been denied. Always find out what services a lawyer offers and if they offer the specific services you need.
Pay Attention to Their Communication Style
One of the most overlooked elements to consider as you look to hire a Social Security attorney is the communication style of the attorney. You want an attorney you can communicate well with and who understands you. If you are struggling to communicate with a lawyer prior to hiring them, they may not be on the same page as you or the right lawyer for your case.
Ask if They Offer Free Case Evaluations
The final tip for finding a reputable attorney for a Social Security case is to find an attorney that offers a free case evaluation. This helps you to get a feel for the lawyer prior to hiring them. This also is important for a lawyer as well. It helps them determine if you have a case that they feel they can win. Be wary of lawyers who charge you for an initial evaluation or don't meet with you prior to taking on your case.
Even though you may legally be entitled to disability benefits, getting the Social Security Administration to approve those benefits is no easy feat.
Social Security attorneys can help you to recover any back pay you may be entitled to and receive benefits moving forward. If you are looking to hire an attorney who can help you with everything from filing a case to appealing a case, turn to our legal team. Contact us at the Law Offices of Eric R. Hunt today to start the process.