Social Security Disability
Most Social Security disability applications are denied the first time. We build the medical record and handle the appeals process — from application through an ALJ hearing — on contingency.
Social Security disability claims are decided on a strict, technical standard: not just that you cannot do your old job, but that your medical condition prevents you from doing any substantial gainful work, and is expected to last at least a year or result in death. Most initial applications are denied, often because the medical record on file doesn't clearly address that standard rather than because the underlying disability isn't real.
A denial is not the end of the process. You can request reconsideration, and if that is also denied, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, where you and your medical evidence are actually heard rather than reviewed on paper alone. Each stage has a strict filing deadline, and missing one can mean starting over from scratch months or years later.
We handle Social Security disability claims from the initial application through the hearing stage: gathering the medical records and physician statements that speak directly to the SSA's disability criteria, preparing you for what to expect at a hearing, and handling communication with the SSA so you can focus on your health. Fees in these cases are set and capped by federal law and come only from past-due benefits if you win — there is no upfront cost to have us review your claim.
How we help
- Initial applications
- Reconsideration appeals
- Administrative Law Judge hearings
- Medical evidence and physician statement gathering
- No fee unless your claim is approved
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between SSDI and SSI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you've paid; Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program available to people with limited income and resources regardless of work history. Some applicants qualify for both, and the medical disability standard is the same for each.
How long does a Social Security disability claim take?
Initial applications commonly take several months to decide, and most are denied on the first try. If yours is denied, the next steps are reconsideration and then a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge — the hearing stage alone can take a year or more depending on the local office's backlog. Getting the medical evidence right from the start is the biggest lever you have over the timeline.
What happens if my disability claim is denied?
You generally have 60 days to request reconsideration, and if that is also denied, another 60 days to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Missing either deadline can mean starting the whole process over, so act promptly on any denial notice.
How much does a Social Security disability lawyer cost?
Attorney's fees in Social Security disability cases are regulated and capped by federal law. In the typical arrangement, the fee comes only out of past-due benefits if you win — not future benefits — and there is no upfront cost to hire us.
Should I get a lawyer before I even apply, or only after a denial?
Either point is a reasonable time to talk to us, but earlier is better. Most denials trace back to gaps in the medical record or a claim that wasn't framed around the specific SSA disability criteria — problems that are far easier to prevent at the application stage than to fix on appeal.
Talk to a lawyer about your social security disability case
Consultations are free and confidential. No recovery, no fee.
This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. See our full disclaimer.