What Does a Disability Lawyer Do?

If you have already filed a claim, a disability lawyer will communicate on your behalf with all official and legal entities involved in the disability process. This includes the Social Security Administration (SSA), medical providers and the courts. A disability lawyer will also make recommendations about how you improve your chances of being successful. A disability lawyer will first conduct a review of all the information pertaining to your case, then the two of you will discuss the best course of action. If you have not filed a claim, the lawyer will assist you in properly completing the application for disability. They will also help you collect and organize all medical records and paperwork essential to your case.

Once the application has been filed, the disability lawyer will communicate with the SSA on your behalf, file appeals if your claim is denied and represent you if your claim is scheduled for a hearing.

What Does a Workers' Comp Attorney Do?

A workers' comp attorney's job is to assist the individual in receiving benefits from the entity determined to be responsible for the injury and their insurance company. The attorney will perform the following duties:

• Draft applications, discovery requests, motions, findings, legal briefs and other legal paperwork relevant to the case.
• Help create a case plan to develop the best case possible.
• Collect and organize medical records pertinent to the case.
• Conduct legal research to stay updated on all current laws concerning the case.
• Appear along with the petitioner at all legal proceedings.

An experienced workers' comp attorney will have excellent negotiating and courtroom skills, which will allow you to present the best case possible.. This kind of professionalism can be instrumental in settling a claim expeditiously and to the mutual satisfaction of all parties involved.

Why Do I Need a Workers' Comp or SSD Lawyer?

A lawyer can be beneficial to the filing, navigating and settling of your claim in several ways. Most people are completely unaware of the specific laws that apply to workers' comp and SSD claims. An attorney who specializes in these types of cases will be knowledgeable and skilled in applying these laws to your case to get you the best resolution possible.

A lawyer will also make sure that you aren't given misleading or false information regarding your rights. Sometimes, injured or disabled workers are told by employers that if they have a pre-existing condition that was aggravated by a workplace accident, then their injury is not covered by law. This is untrue. Your attorney will give you accurate information about these laws.

Your legal counselor will strive to get you the maximum amount of money possible for your injuries and will make sure you are protected into the future.

Many free resources are available at caring.com to help you understand your Social Security Benefits

When Should You Hire a Lawyer?

You should hire a workers' comp lawyer when you have been seriously injured on the job. They can help you navigate the process of workers' compensation and make sure you are being treated fairly.

You should hire an SSD lawyer at the beginning of the claims process, not after you’ve already been denied. This increases your likelihood of success and minimizes wasted time and money, as well as minimizing frustration on your part.

What Questions to Ask a Lawyer?

You will want to choose the best attorney to represent you. Ask friends and family for recommendations, read online reviews and do your own research. Prepare a list of questions to ask any attorney you're considering retaining. The list should include:

• How long have you been practicing law?
• How long have you been specializing in this area of law?
• Have you represented clients with cases similar to mine?
• What is your success rate with workers' comp/SSD cases?
• Will you be dealing with my case yourself or handing it off to a partner?
• What are the weak points and strong points of my case? How can you help me make it a stronger case?
• How often will you be in contact with me?
• How much do you charge, and what does your fee include?
• Include any other questions you may have as well. It is important to find the most experienced legal representation possible to handle your claim with whom you feel comfortable. A good counselor will answer all your questions honestly and patiently.