Social Security Disability
Pittsburgh Social Security Disability Lawyer
Individuals who suffer from physical or emotional disabilities may be eligible for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides benefits to all Americans who have worked and contributed enough to be eligible, as well as certain family members. (A similar program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), provides benefits based solely on the applicant’s need.) In 2007, nearly 8 billion dollars in benefits were paid out to more than 8 million people. Unfortunately, for most applicants, the SSDI process is lengthy and difficult, and these challenges can discourage potential applicants or rejected applicants from filing or appealing their claims.
The Law Office of Melvin L Vatz provides legal advice and representation to clients who wish to file for Social Security disability benefits or clients who have had their initial claims denied. We know how tough the process can be, and help our clients understand the steps they need to go through to be successful. Our firm is able to step in at any stage of the process to help present your claim as effectively as possible.
Understanding the Social Security Disability Process
You should know from the start that the vast majority of initial claims for SSDI and SSI benefits are denied. Some applicants simply give up at this point, not understanding that many appeals are successful. While the original application process is fairly straightforward, the appeals process is considerably more complex and clients benefit greatly from the assistance and counsel of an experienced Social Security disability attorney.
Depending on several factors, getting the acceptance or denial of an initial claim to Social Security disability benefits can take up to several months, and the appeals process can take considerably longer. The appeals system is backlogged with cases and it can take many more months to even get an administrative law judge to hear your case at trial. Your lawyer must be willing to remain on your side for the entirety of your claim and appeal. At the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, we prepare clients for the long haul, and our firm will be there to answer questions at every stage of the process.
Social Security regulations define when a person is eligible for disability benefits. These complex regulations require an examination of an applicant’s education, age, work experience, medical history and physical and mental capacity to work to determine whether he or she qualifies. An experienced Social Security disability lawyer will obtain and analyze your medical records, and work with your doctors, if required, to fully explain how your medical condition is disabling. There may be testimony from vocational experts about your ability to work, even with your medical condition. An experienced Social Security disability lawyer is essential to evaluate the testimony, and cross-examine the expert to challenge his opinions.
Your lawyer will fully prepare you for your testimony at a hearing, as well as any witnesses necessary to prove your case, including family members and friends who know your condition.
Contact Us to Learn More About Social Security Disability in Pennsylvania
Whether you are just beginning the application process or your initial claim has been denied, contact us at the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, to speak with an attorney about Social Security disability benefits. Do not be discouraged by a denial or by the lengthy appeals process. Instead, let us prepare your case and provide the comfort and personal attention that you need. Call us at our office in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at (412) 391-3030. We offer free consultations and you will pay no attorney fees unless you obtain compensation on your claim.