For many individuals who are unable to work due to a disability, receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can prove extremely helpful when it comes to making ends meet. Unfortunately, though, the process for applying for SSD benefits can be confusing and complex, to say the least. Many individuals spend a lot of time filling out their claim only to have it flat-out denied. The goods news is that with the help of the right SSD attorney, you don’t have to worry about filling out your application the wrong way. But how exactly do you know who the right SSD lawyer might be? Here are 5 important questions to ask.
1. Do you specialize in disability law?
One of the most important questions when hiring an attorney – including an SSD attorney – is whether or not he or she specializes in the category of law pertaining to your case. Therefore it’s extremely important to know whether the attorney specializes in disability law. Essentially what this means is that he or she dedicated a large portion of his or her practice to the area of SSD.
2. How many years of experience do you have?
Although experience doesn’t always equate to superior service, finding an attorney who is experienced enough to have seen the important things that could hinder your application and know how to overcome them. It’s also a good idea to ask whether the attorney has also had experience with cases such as yours. You wouldn’t necessarily want an SSD attorney who has only worked with clients with physical disabilities if you have a mental disability.
3. What are your fees?
When someone is already struggling with the ability to make an income due to a disability, the thought of having to shell out large sums of money can be discouraging to even hiring a lawyer. This is why it’s important to be upfront when asking what the attorney charges, including case-related expenses such as postage and record requests.
Luckily, most reputable attorneys practicing in the area of disability law do not require any payments upfront. Rather, you are only charged when you win your case. At that point, they will generally take their fees out of your back check payment and are still limited to no more than 25 percent of the retroactive amount up to $6,000 (per the Social Security Administration).
4. Will you be in touch even if my claim is denied?
Unfortunately, the process of applying for and receiving SSD benefits is not always a quick one. When your application has been denied as well as your appeal, the hearing date that you will be assigned can take up to two years. That’s why it’s extremely important that the attorney you choose will be good at communicating the status of everything and will remain in touch over this period of time.
5. Do you handle federal court cases?
Hopefully, you will be successful in receiving your SSD benefits, but there are applicants who end up being denied throughout each step of the process. If this occurs, an applicant’s last opportunity will be a federal court hearing. It’s important to know that your attorney can handle cases in federal court or else you would be stuck finding new representation in the eleventh hour, which is never good.
The Las Vegas SSD Attorneys at Roeschke Law, LLC Can Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with a disability that prevents the ability to work, you may not know how to proceed. Fortunately, the attorneys at Roeschke Law, LLC can help. We understand the impact that a disability can have on your physical, emotional, and financial health. That’s why it’s our mission to help you. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!