Disability lawyers

[Jmiller46]

How does one go about finding a lawyer to help with disability claims? I know there are some that don't charge a fee directly but not sure how to find them. I have a friend that NEEDS to file but she is going to need a lawyer and I figured someone here would know where to start :).

[Socalmacs]

I googled disability attorneys and researched some, my mom told me about one named Bill LaTou that I looked up and his company sounded really good, and I found one more office that actually has won many cases based on fibromyalgia which I need one or fibrolmyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis. The law firm sounded very professional and ready to fight for me. I'm going to call them next week.

Basically just Google them and research them before you sign anything. Word of mouth is the best way though.

[Preacherman]

Hi Jmiller46,

My first question would be. Where do you live? I filed about 4 years ago and didn't need or use an attorney, and they approved me right away. If you have R/A and can prove it medically, you should be ok, you really only need an attorney if you get turned down etc. Actually I was surprised on how well it went. Why give them 1/3rd, when you may not have too.

Blessings,

Brian

[Jmiller46 in reply to Preacherman]

She doesn't have RA. She was badly injured in a car accident.

[Preacherman in reply to Jmiller46]

Sorry, I didn't mean she had to have R/A to get disability. However having said that, I think I can help you, well that is my intent, but what I'd have to say would be just too much to type, so this would really require a phone conversation.

I totally agree with Marylcsw, if they turn you down, don't give up, fight. But when you file for the first time, it is very very important to do a good job and have everything in order. You will need to make copies of everything, the better job you do the more likely and the quicker you'll receive your disability, in which folks who are truly disabled should really have it, after all many of us have paid into it for years.

Blessings,

Brian

[Marylcsw]

If I were you, I would submit the first time on my own. If turned down, be sure to contest and then find an attorney to help you. Watch the time line carefully. Your benefits when approved go back to when you first applied. That is why you want your application to stay active at all times. SSD can take a while to get approved in many instances. What often happens is the case is sent to a judge for a ruling. Good luck!

[Jmiller46 in reply to Marylcsw]

She already has. There are other circumstances in her case and she needs some help. I have tried looking for her and can't figure anything out.

[Marylcsw in reply to Jmiller46]

I'm a social worker and I've helped others get through the disability system. I would look for a lawyer who represents people in personal injuries. They often represent people with disabilities. SSD laws changed under the Reagan admiNistration to allow people with RA and other similar problems to be eligble. Currently, the SS system has become much more difficult as many feel that people are malingering rather than suffering.

[Jmiller46 in reply to Marylcsw]

Thank you!

[Marylcsw in reply to Jmiller46]

By the way, it doesn't matter that she doesn't have RA. Her medical records should document the extent of her injuries. Do keep copies of every thing that is submitted. Also try to keep a record of who you speak to noting content and if possible phone number.

[Multijo]

Agree with advice you don't need lawyer till appeal and then it becomes very important.

This will cost you time though. I know the time I spent was expensive. I racked up quite a debt until the checks started coMing in

Not sure what state you live in jmiller but you should be able to get a lawyer on a contingency basis. I did not know this and paid a bit of money I didn't have to lose for a fIrst consultation. That was unnecessary.

Jo

[Jmiller46 in reply to Multijo]

She has already applied several times. Not sure why she is having so many problems with this. There is no way she can work. Yet one of my home health clients years ago applied because she was an alcoholic and was approved right away. While this is not for me I do appreciate all of the great advice here! The last few days I have been kind of kicking myself for not going on and applying while I was between jobs! The way my hip has felt for the last week I could have honestly told them I didn't think I could handle it any longer.