Look for Experience with Disability Law

Not all attorneys handle Social Security Disability cases. You want someone who:

• Focuses primarily or exclusively on SSDI and SSI claims
• Understands the SSA’s rules, deadlines, and appeals process
• Has handled cases similar to yours (e.g., mental health, chronic illness, veterans’ claims)

Ask:
“How many disability cases have you handled?”
“Do you have experience with appeals or hearings?”

Check Reviews and Client Testimonials

Reputation matters. Look for:

• Online reviews from past clients
• Word-of-mouth referrals
• Case success stories (many attorneys share them on their websites)

Avoid lawyers with consistent complaints about being unresponsive, rushed, or unprepared.

Understand Their Fee Structure

Legitimate disability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis—meaning:

• You don’t pay upfront
• They only get paid if you win your case
• Their fee is usually capped by law at 25% of your back pay, with a maximum set by SSA (currently $7,200)

Ask for this in writing so there are no surprises later.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Most disability attorneys offer free initial consultations. Use this to:

• Explain your case and see how they respond
• Ask how they’ll communicate with you throughout the process
• Gauge if they seem attentive, knowledgeable, and patient

Trust your gut—if the attorney rushes you, doesn’t explain things clearly, or feels like a bad fit, keep looking.

Ask About Their Support Team

A great disability attorney is backed by a strong staff. Ask:

• Will I have a case manager or assistant I can contact?
• How often will I get updates?
• Who helps with gathering medical records and forms?

A responsive and organized support team makes the process smoother.