After waiting months for a response on your application for Social Security Disability benefits, dealing with the heartbreak of rejection, and then going through the whole process again with the reconsideration, the prospect of making your case in an administrative hearing in front of a judge can seem overwhelming. While there is no reason to be discouraged at this point, you do need to be cautious.
The disability hearing is your best chance to ensure that evidence of your disability is given full consideration. But it is also your last chance to present evidence. You can appeal the results of a hearing, but appeals are based on legal grounds only, and not on the facts of your case.
We are Ready to Help
To make the most of your opportunity at a disability hearing, it is a good idea to work with an experienced disability attorney. In fact, the Social Security Administration often recommends seeking legal advice, particularly at this point in the process.
The team at Burgess & Christensen understands how to help you succeed in your disability hearing so that you can finally receive the benefits you deserve. If you have a hearing scheduled, or if you have been denied at reconsideration, we urge you to start working with us as soon as possible. The more time we have to prepare your case, the easier it will be to achieve success.
Requesting a Hearing
After you receive a denial at reconsideration, you have 60 days to request a hearing. The request must be made in writing, but you can submit a request online either on your own or through your attorney. You will receive notice of the date and time you have been scheduled for a hearing, and generally this notice is provided at least 75 days before the hearing date. Hearings can be conducted in person, via video teleconference or by telephone. You should discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option with your attorney.
It is vitally important to submit evidence to demonstrate your qualifications for benefits, and the Administration wants to receive this evidence before the hearing so that the judge has the opportunity to review it. At Burgess & Christensen, we understand the evidence that judges find persuasive, and the importance of making sure that the judge has a complete file to review before your hearing.
Preparing for Your Hearing
It is important to not only ensure that your evidence is ready for the hearing but also that you are personally prepared. The judge will ask you questions, and when you have had the chance to consider your answers ahead of time and discuss them with an attorney experienced in Social Security disability hearings, you will feel more confident with the process.
You will be asked questions about your education and vocational training and quite a few questions about your work experience. You will also be asked questions about your disability and medical treatment. The judge will want you to describe in your own words how your disability impacts your life and your ability to work. Your attorney can help you consider and practice your answers to common questions, and provide feedback to help you ensure that your full story is heard.
Get Prepared for Your Disability Hearing with Burgess & Christensen
Your Social Security Disability hearing gives you the chance to finally receive the benefits you need. However, you will need to prepare properly to achieve success.
The experienced team at Burgess & Christensen is ready to guide you each step of the way. We work with you throughout the process, and can manage your appeal through the Social Security Appeals Council or even in federal court if necessary. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you with the hearing or other parts of the journey toward disability benefits.