Founding Attorney
Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) can be an overwhelming and intensely stressful process. The stakes are high, the system moves slowly, the rules feel confusing, and one mistake can prevent you from getting benefits for months. A skilled SSD lawyer can guide you through every step of the claims process, strengthen your application, and relieve much of the stress you’re currently under.
This quick guide from Grech Law Firm highlights six of the most significant reasons why you should consider hiring an SSD attorney to protect your rights and fight for the financial support you deserve.
1. Understanding Your Legal Rights
Many people start their SSD journey without a clear picture of their legal rights. They often wonder:
Do I qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Both of these programs may provide you with the financial support you need, but it’s not always clear which of them matches your circumstances. A lawyer can review your work history, medical records, and daily limitations to identify the correct program for you.
What evidence does the Social Security Administration (SSA) expect?
You must provide strong evidence that your disability prevents you from performing substantial work to have your claim approved, and that it will last at least twelve months or end in death. A skilled attorney can explain the legal standards you must meet and the documentation required to do so.
What deadlines matter?
A missed deadline can bar you from receiving financial assistance. Your attorney can help your case stay on track and prevent avoidable errors.
2. Navigating Social Security Administration Rules
The SSA has thousands of pages of regulations and internal procedures. Claimants often feel overwhelmed by the technical language and sheer volume of information. An experienced disability attorney understands the SSA’s rules and how to follow them. Your attorney can:
- Translate complicated SSA requirements into plain English
- Track key filing deadlines
- Communicate with the SSA on your behalf
- Avoid critical errors that can stall your claim
3. Collecting Evidence
The strength of your medical evidence often determines whether you receive benefits. An SSD lawyer can strengthen your case by:
- Reviewing medical records and identifying missing documentation
- Requesting detailed statements from treating doctors
- Gathering test results, imaging, therapy notes, and prescription histories
- Preparing clients to track symptoms and daily limitations
- Linking medical findings to the SSA’s specific disability criteria
4. Preparing for Hearings
If the SSA schedules a hearing, clients must speak directly with an Administrative Law Judge. Many people feel anxious because they are unsure of what to expect from these hearings.
A lawyer can prepare you by:
- Conducting mock questioning
- Explaining the hearing format step-by-step
- Identifying key medical facts to highlight
- Challenging testimony that might hurt your claim
- Presenting arguments that align with SSA rules
5. Appealing Denials
Unfortunately, the SSA denies many initial applications. However, a denial does not mean the end of the road. A skilled SSD lawyer can review the reasons for denial and then:
- File timely appeals
- Correct errors in the original application
- Submit new medical evidence
- Argue why the client meets the SSA’s disability criteria
- Handle appeals at every stage
6. Improving Success Rates
People who work with an experienced attorney are more likely to receive SSD benefits because their cases include better documentation, clear explanations, more organized presentations, and fewer avoidable errors. An experienced SSD attorney also knows how individual SSA offices operate in Michigan and adjusts their strategy to meet local expectations.
Contact a Michigan Social Security Disability Lawyer Today
When you work with an attorney, you avoid common mistakes and gain a powerful advocate who knows how to obtain the benefits you deserve. The team at Grech Law Firm knows what it takes to get your claim approved. Whether you’re filing for the first time or appealing a denial, we’re prepared to fight for your right to financial assistance. Contact us today for your consultation.