Social Security is an important entitlement program that offers a financial safety net for individuals with disabilities and their families, as well as seniors. Unfortunately, Social Security law, which encompasses elements of both federal and state jurisprudence, is complex and challenging to navigate. Whether you’re trying to calculate your spousal benefit or filing an appeal for your rejected disability claim, here are three reasons why you should turn to an attorney for help. 

How Attorneys Help With Social Security Law 

1. Improved Odds 

The Social Security Administration rejects roughly 70% of initial disability claims from Georgia residents. A survey recently showed that 60% of respondents who had the help of an attorney were eventually approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), while only 34% of individuals without legal representation achieved success. While victory is never guaranteed, your chances are much better with professional assistance. 

2. Procedural Knowledge 

Attorneys are familiar with both the federal Social Security laws and state rules that may affect your case. They know what eligibility criteria you’ll need to fulfill to establish your disability case. They can also help you request reconsiderations of decisions that you feel are unfair within the appropriate deadline. They assist you in choosing your appeal type, such as a case review, an informal conference, or a formal conference. If the matter goes before an Administrative Law Judge, a lawyer will guide you through the potentially lengthy process and help you feel more confident in the hearing room. They can also explain the process of filing a lawsuit in federal district court if the Appeals Council doesn’t rule in your favor or declines to hear your case. 

3. Official Forms

Whether you’re filing an initial claim or fighting a reduction in benefits, you’ll need to complete several forms. You’ll need a vast amount of information to complete them, from the date of injury to patient identification numbers and a list of all medicines you’re currently taking. Appeals also come with their own documents. Errors and misfilings can drastically slow the process. A detail-oriented lawyer will help you avoid common mistakes to streamline the process.   

If you’re struggling with disability claims or any other aspect of Social Security law, the attorneys at the Law Offices of Terrence J. Paulk, PC, will assist. They have over three decades of experience representing the Ben Hill County, GA, region in disability, workers' compensation, and public benefit cases. Call (229) 423-8783 to schedule a consultation. Visit them online to learn more.