If you’re denied, Social Security Disability benefits
Don’t give up! It’s heartbreaking and very frustrating when you know you cannot work but the government still denies your case. The process to appeal can be long and tedious, but success is often achieved.
Most people who apply are initially denied. At George & George, we want to help turn your denial into an approval.
There are four levels of appeal
1. Reconsideration
A review of the claim by someone who did not take part in the first decision. The original evidence is reviewed along with any new information you provide.
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
For our area, these typically take place in the Nashville Social Security Administration offices. Most cases are won at this level.
3. Review by Appeals Council
If the ALJ denies your case, you may ask the Appeals Council to review that decision. The Appeals Council may return your case to the ALJ for a new hearing.
4. Federal Court Review
If you disagree with the Appeals Council decision, you can file a lawsuit in Federal District Court. You must have an attorney admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court in Tennessee or Kentucky to represent you at this level.
If you were denied, it’s not the end
Contact us to talk about your case.
At George & George, we can help you at every stage of the appeals process.
Important – Once you’re denied benefits, the clock starts ticking. Don’t wait too long. You can miss the deadline to appeal!
Your hearing is often the most critical stage in your case. Your hearing before the Administrative Law Judge is your best chance to present evidence in person. It’s crucial you and the evidence be well prepared.
If you have received a denial at the initial step, we strongly recommend you get legal help as soon as possible.
The team at George & George will:
- Analyze your Social Security file
- Prepare your case and set the strategy
- Gather additional evidence from your doctors and medical providers
- Prepare you to testify
- Question witnesses
- Cross-examine any medical and vocational experts who testify at your hearing
- Appeal your case on the federal level if merited
Social Security sometimes brings in expert medical and vocational witnesses to provide testimony. We know how to present evidence to maximize your chances and cross-examine the experts if necessary.
Most people win benefits with an experienced lawyer
According to Social Security’s own statistics, people win benefits more often when they have representation than when they don’t. Since there are no legal fees if you don’t win benefits, the decision to get legal representation is an easy one.
The attorneys at George & George have the experience and knowledge of the law to help with your appeal. Contact us today for a free evaluation of your claim.