Social Security Disability Hearings in Tallahassee

Helping You Obtain the Benefits You Deserve

For those who are 18 years or older, are not already receiving Social Security benefits, and are unable to work due to a medical condition that will last for at least a year, Social Security disability benefits exist. Unfortunately, even if you deserve these benefits, they are not always easy to obtain.

If you were denied Social Security disability benefits, and were denied again during your reconsideration, your case will progress to a Social Security disability hearing. Unlike most other courtroom hearings, your disability hearing will commence before an administrative law judge and will not be open to the public.

At Anderson & Hart, P.A., our Tallahassee Social Security disability attorneys will help you obtain the results you need. We have the experience and knowledge required to navigate the complexities of these cases with success.

How to Prepare for a Disability Hearing

Part of the anxiety people often feel regarding Social Security disability hearing is not knowing what to expect during the process and how to prepare for it.

To relieve some of this anxiety and provide clarity, are a few things you can expect to happen during your hearing:

• You are going to be questioned by the administrative judge on your case. His or her questions will focus on your medical issues, medical treatment, previous employment, and how your medical condition affects your life. Be prepared to answer these questions thoroughly and honestly. Lying or exaggerating about your problems will only damage your credibility.
• You can ask your attorney to speak on your behalf. Your attorney is not just there to advise you; he or she can also argue your case or speak for you.
• The judge will question expert witnesses regarding your medical condition, including which tasks they believe you can still perform. They will provide crucial details about your ability to work, sustain a job, and which jobs they believe you can still effectively perform in your condition.
• You might be required to answer additional questions and will be given the opportunity to make any comments or statements.
• Do not expect to receive a decision on the same day as your hearing. In fact, it can take as much as 30 days before you receive the judge’s decision. In certain unique circumstances, the judge might issue a bench decision, but this is uncommon.

SSD Hearing FAQ

Q. What are common disability hearing questions I might be asked?

A: During your hearing you may be asked various questions about your employment background, any formal training you have received, your medical issues and how they limit you, etc. Before going to your hearing you should be prepared to answer these types of questions.

Q. How can I find out my Social Security Disability hearing status?

A: You are able to check the status of your hearing on the SSD website. Once your hearing has been scheduled, you will also be able to find the date, time and location of the hearing online.

Q. What is the typical Social Security Disability hearing timeline?

A: If you are still waiting to have your hearing you can expect an average wait time of 12 to 15 months. However, this time-frame can vary depending on where your hearing will be held and average wait times for that office. Once your hearing is over, you can expect an answer from the Administrative Law Judge anywhere from a few weeks to several months after your hearing.

Q. How should I dress for a disability hearing?

A: In general you should dress in a manner that is clean and presentable, but also avoid wearing clothing or jewelry that may be distracting. The focus should be on your case appeal. Also, try to avoid overdressing for your hearing.

Q. I've been denied social security retirement benefits, now what?

A: If your Social Security Disability benefits claim is denied, you should request an appeal within the 60-day deadline. Our Tallahassee SSD lawyer is here to help.

Have more questions about preparing for your hearing? Our SSD lawyers are prepared to represent you. Contact Anderson & Hart, P.A. today to discuss your case in a free, confidential consultation!

How Our Social Security Disability Hearing Attorney Can Help

At Anderson & Hart, P.A. in Tallahassee, our Social Security disability hearing attorneys are here to represent you during your time of need and help you prepare for your hearing, so you can obtain the benefits you deserve.

Call today at (850) 203-3041 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free case review with a knowledgeable Tallahassee Social Security disability attorney today.