Essential Questions to Ask a Disability Lawyer

What is your experience with Social Security Disability cases?

It’s crucial to hire an attorney with specific experience in Social Security Disability claims, as this area of law can be very specialized. Ask about their track record and experience handling cases similar to yours.

What is your success rate for disability cases?
An attorney with a high success rate indicates that they know how to navigate the complexities of disability claims and the appeals process. Ask for their success rate for both initial claims and appeals.

Do you have experience with appeals?

If your case has already been denied, it’s important to hire a lawyer who is experienced in handling appeals. Ask if the attorney has successfully represented clients in Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearings.

What is your fee structure?

Most disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they don’t get paid unless you win your case. Make sure you understand the percentage the lawyer will take from your back pay and any other costs associated with the representation.

Will you handle my case personally or will it be passed off to someone else?

Ask if the attorney you are speaking to will be the one handling your case, or if it will be assigned to another attorney or paralegal. You want to ensure you’re getting the attention your case deserves.

How long will the process take?

While the exact timeline depends on the specifics of your case, a good attorney should be able to give you an estimate of how long it will take to process your claim and any potential delays to expect.

What steps will you take to strengthen my case?

The attorney should explain how they plan to help gather medical records, secure opinions from medical professionals, and provide evidence that strengthens your case.

How often will I be updated on my case?

You’ll want to know how often the attorney or their team will keep you informed about the status of your claim. Frequent communication and updates are key to feeling confident throughout the process.

What are the chances of my claim being approved?

While no attorney can guarantee a win, a good lawyer should give you an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of success based on their experience with similar claims.

Do you have testimonials or references from previous clients?

Ask for reviews or testimonials from previous clients, especially those with cases similar to yours. This can give you a sense of the lawyer's reputation and how they handle their clients’ needs.

What are the most common reasons disability claims are denied, and how can you help avoid them?

An experienced attorney should be able to highlight common pitfalls and mistakes that lead to denials and explain how they can help you avoid these issues in your case.