Countless people throughout Utah depend on social security disability benefits to live a good quality of life. However, collecting benefits does not happen overnight. The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) process only begins when you file your application. Most applications are initially denied, and the wait time for an appeal hearing can be up to a year.
Both you and your attorney need to be prepared for the wait. My name is Melvin A. Cook and I am a Salt Lake City SSDI claims and appeals attorney. Over the years, I have represented many men and women involved in disputes over their disability benefits. From the time each client visits for their initial consultation, I am committed to help them navigate through the complex legal process. Once our day in court arrives, you will have an effective advocate on your side who understands both the legal and financial issues of your claim. My background can often make the difference in a close case.
The extended wait time is probably the most deflating aspect of a Social Security disability claim. While I spend that time gathering additional facts and researching the latest applicable laws, my clients must wait. After rising sharply in 2008 and 2009, probably due to the Great Recession, the number of filings has actually decreased in each of the last two years. Therefore, the government can no longer use the excuse of overworked hearing officers. Since wait times vary so much — for example, you may wait up to two years in Raleigh, but just down the road in Charlotte, the wait time is half that long — the simple explanation may be that some offices are well-organized and efficient while other offices are disorganized and inefficient. A popular conspiracy theory is that the government intentionally extends the wait time, or at least does very little to curb the problem, in the hopes that more claimants become frustrated and abandon their claims.
The Social Security Administration hearing officer looks at your condition and its severity when determining whether you meet the definition of disabled. I deal with many different types of physical and mental disabilities and have had a good deal of success in both areas. Some common medical conditions that my clients struggle with include:
The bottom line is that if you or a loved one has any sort of disability that interferes with your daily routine, you should at least talk to a lawyer about obtaining government benefits, which may include both Social Security disability benefits and workers’ compensation benefits.
When it comes to disability claims and appeals, it is important to be persistent. I do not give up easily. I am prepared to conduct as many appeals as it takes to get you the benefits you deserve. To learn more on how a Salt Lake City SSDI claims and appeals attorney can help, contact the Law Office of Melvin A. Cook online or at 801-746-5075 to schedule your free initial consultation. Hablo Español.
When it comes the family law and social security disability , each client and case is different. It is also important to select an attorney with the experience, skills and professionalism required to address your legal issues. To learn more, contact the Salt Lake City law offices of Melvin A. Cook and schedule an initial consultation to discuss your case.