Navigating the waters of a complicated legal case is never an easy thing to do. When it's something most people have never dealt with before, like a social security disability claim, it can be even more tricky. Having a good attorney on your side can mean all the difference in a case like this. However, how do you choose a good one? Here are three things to look for when choosing your attorney.
Tip #1: Know Your Attorney's Experience
Just about any attorney would be able to handle the basics of a social security disability case. However, that doesn't mean they excel at it. When you're trying to find the right attorney for you, ask specific questions like how long they've been handling social security cases, how many of these cases they handle a month, and what their typical success rate is. Your attorney is obligated to be honest with you. They may try to convince you that they would be able to help, but if the experience just isn't there, don't feel bad about choosing someone else.
Tip #2: Evaluate Your Attorney's Cost
Most social security disability attorneys will not charge a fee up front, or even charge you out of pocket. They only get paid when you win your case. When choosing your attorney, know how much they plan to take should you win. The United States Social Security Disability Administration actually limits attorney fees to 25% of your judgement. Yet, most attorneys have a lower fee. Choosing one attorney over another could mean a difference of thousands of dollars.
Tip #3: Make Sure Your Attorney is Familiar With Your Situation
There are many different medical conditions that can be approved for disability under social security, some of them are easier to get a claim for than others. When selecting an attorney, find out how common your condition is. If your condition is one that's more difficult to get a claim, find an attorney that has experience dealing with that condition. Having an attorney that has experience with your specific condition can mean the difference between winning and losing a case.
Filing a social security disability claim isn't something you should do on your own. When you choose a social security attorney, you're not only taking the stress and pressure off of yourself, but you're actually increasing your chances at a successful case. Attorneys usually have years of experience with the legal system, and have likely dealt with plenty of cases just like yours before. They know exactly how to make the whole legal process run smoothly, and know how to work to their clients' benefit.
