As with many government processes, claiming the Social Security disability benefits to which you are entitled can be a frustrating and intimidating experience. Because of this, many Social Security disability claimants elect to hire an experienced lawyer to guide them through the steps and to represent their interests to judges and government officials.

Attorney David Schmidt of Woodlawn Law Offices in O’Fallon, Missouri, has been assisting clients with disability claims for over 25 years; below, he explains a few ways an experienced disability lawyer can help you:

• Preparing The Claim: Many disability claimants choose to seek the services of a lawyer from the very outset of their claim. The paperwork involved in a Social Security disability application is dense and complex, and any mistakes or omissions can lead to a delay of benefits or even an outright denial of the claim. For those who simply want to make sure their application is well-prepared, a disability lawyer can prepare and file a claim on their behalf.
• Expediting The Process: In some cases, a disability lawyer may be able to keep a claim moving through the system quickly, either by ensuring prompt and tidy completion of the application or by filing particular motions in cases where a potential claimant needs immediate assistance. While this is not frequently the case and the wheels of government usually turn at their own pace, a disability attorney may be able to expedite a claim.
• Representing The Claimant On Appeal: A surprising number of Social Security disability applications are rejected on the first try, but an experienced disability lawyer will be able to help struggling disability claimants through the pathways of appeal. It can be beneficial to have the representation of a confident, well-prepared lawyer for any hearing.

Regardless of what stage of the application process a claimant is in, a lawyer experienced in Social Security disability cases can do a great deal to secure benefits for those who are entitled to them. If you or someone you love is struggling with a Social Security disability claim in O’Fallon, MO, visit the Woodlawn Law Offices online or call (636) 240-6667 today to schedule an appointment.