Social Security is an extensive system that has many rules and regulations. People with disabilities can petition the SSA (Social Security Administration) to receive monthly stipends. In order to secure payments, petitioners must present proof that they have a disability and need government assistance. If their disability claim gets approved, they are entitled to recover compensation they were unable to receive in the past. Settlement amounts usually total thousands of dollars. However, if a claim gets denied, it’s usually best to seek the help of a Social Security disability lawyer in North Carolina.
Let’s take a look at how the process works, so you have an idea of what to expect and the various way a qualified attorney can help you with your claim.
Starting The Process
Most lawyers would consider social security law to be a specialty field. Attorneys in this field must be familiar with the claims and discovery process. Petitioners have to follow certain procedures before filing a social security claim. They must also submit medical records and possible testimony to the administration to get their claim approved.
The entire process can be highly overwhelming and the legal guidance of a SSDI attorney will help you navigate the case. In order to find the right attorney, you will need to do quality research of all legal professionals in your area. Our guide will help you learn the proper questions to ask your potential SSDI lawyer.
Do You Have a Qualified Advocate?
A Social Security Disability advocate is a person that helps you throughout your disability case. They will work with you to file a claim, gather paperwork, etc. What many people do not know is that an advocate does not have to be a lawyer. It can simply be a person that attended college and passed an exam administered by the SSA.
Although advocates are helpful, they cannot take the place of a trained legal professional that has passed the bar exam and attended law school. During your consultation, ask the advocate if they are a social security disability lawyer. They should be able to show you certification such as a law degree and license to practice. Disability attorneys are usually members of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR).
How Often Will We Meet?
As a claimant, your attorney should be giving you regular updates about the status of your case and the proceedings. Social Security cases can take months or even years to go to court and you need to be able to communicate with your social security disability lawyer during that time.
In-person meetings are very important and communication should not be limited to a phone call. Ask the attorney if they will schedule regular updates with you and make you a priority during your case.
Will the Attorney Help Me Fill Out Forms?
Your social security disability lawyer in North Carolina will be able to assist you with filling out and submitting SSA forms. The only thing you are responsible for are your answers. It is their duty to help you fill out appeals, motions, etc. Ask your prospective lawyer if they will assist you with filling out forms or if you have to do this on your own.
What Is The Fee?
Many Social Security disability lawyers do not require a retainer fee. They get paid when you win your case. SSDI lawyers are entitled to 25 percent of your settlement money but the SSA has imposed a cap. SSDI lawyers cannot receive more than $6,000 for a case.
Instead of charging a retainer fee, many lawyers will require you to set up a fund to help them access your medical records, pay for postage and possibly travel. These funds are usually small and will only cost a few hundred dollars but they are nonrefundable.
Contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer in North Carolina
Lewis & Keller of North Carolina are a team of lawyers that handle Social Security disability cases. They will work diligently with you to process claims and aid you in seeking compensation. Contact our office today for a free case evaluation.
