WHAT AN ATTORNEY OR REP CAN DO FOR YOU

Social Security disability has evolved into legal wrangling and you need help to deal with it. Persons who are not represented are not taken seriously. Here is what a professional representative can do for you.

1) LEGAL THEORY OF THE CASE. In short, why is Social Security obligated by law to pay you a benefit? Do you meet a Listing? Does a Medical-Vocational Guideline direct payment? Do you meet other regulations that dictate payment of a benefit? A thorough understanding of the federal regulations is required to figure this out?

2) GATHER AND SUBMIT MEDICAL EVIDENCE. Your representative will find and submit medical evidence to prove that you are legally disabled. The burden of proof rests with you. Without objective medical proof, no benefit will be paid.

3) OBTAIN WRITTEN OPINIONS FAVORABLE TO YOU. Your representative will attempt to obtain professional opinions from your doctors that will support your case.

4) HELP YOU COMPLETE FORMS AND ANSWER QUESTIONS. Your attorney or representative will help you complete forms and answer questions that Social Security may pose to you.

5) ATTEND THE HEARING AS YOUR REPRESENTATIVE. Your attorney or representative will sit next to you at the hearing. He will clarify evidence, present arguments and question any witnesses that Social Security calls. In short, your rep is there to look out for you.

6) BE SURE YOU ARE PAID CORRECTLY. Your representative will also make sure that you are paid all that you are entitled to receive, including back payments.

7) KEEP THE CASE MOVING ALONG. Any number of things can stall or slow down a Social Security application or process. Your representative is there to keep it moving and get it resolved.