How Is My Social Security Case Handled?
First,
you
must meet the
definition of disability as defined by the social
security administration. That definition specifies that you must have a
SEVERE disabling
condition which will prevent you from doing significant work activity period of 12 continuous months or
will result in
death within 12 months.
Second,
after you contact me we will set up
an appointment. At this appointment, which is at no charge and takes two
hours, we will get to know each other better. The purpose of this
appointment is for me to determine if you can meet the definition of disability
as defined above. Several factor are assessed at this meeting by me. I
will look to see if you are working, and if so, how much you earn and how many
hours you work. Then, based on what the doctors have told you, I will try
and determine if whether you have a physical or mental disability that will
cause significant restrictions in basic work activities for at least one year.
If that exists, and it usually does, then I will attempt to determine whether
you meet or equal a listed disability that social security will approve you for.
However, please be aware that only 20-40% satisfy the listed disabilities
published by social security. Also some disabilities are not even
classified. For example, Fibromyalgia is not listed. The next step
is to try and figure how what kind of restrictions you have from either a
physical or mental health point of view. If you have physical problems
then how are you limited in lifting, sitting, walking and standing, carrying
things etc. If you have a mental health problem how does it affect you in
your ability to concentrate, follow simple or complex instructions, remember
directions etc. Once they limitations are estimated then I will ask you
what prevents you from doing any job that you have held in the last 15 years
since you STOPPED work. If the limitations prevent you from doing past
work then we try and figure out are their any other jobs in the United States
that exist in adequate supply which are within your limitations.
As you can see this is a detailed process
and that is why its very helpful if you can bring any medical records with you
or another person to help me better understand you physical and mental problems.
If you live outside of Colorado
Springs area then the appointment may be by phone or in person depending on your
geographical location. In such cases you will be required to pay mileage
or the cost of the long distance phone call.
This appointment
is your opportunity to ask questions about me as well as my
opportunity to ask questions about you. Also, if you wish to involve a
family member or friend then they are more than welcome to become involved
especially if they are your partner.
If you want me to represent you then
several subsequent meetings will be needed. The purpose of these meetings
is to gain more detailed information on your psychosocial history, medical
history, and vocational history. The information I gather may be
information that social security will ask you to submit or you have already
submitted depending on your case. If you have a
pending hearing or claim then time is essential and we need to
move quickly.
Third,
If you have not filed
yet then we will arrange for you to file. If you have a pending case or
are awaiting a hearing then I will get copy of your file. I will attend appointments with you, whenever possible, as well
as complete any paperwork they request you complete.
Fourth,
If I represent you and you are waiting for a hearing then I will remain in contact
with the Office of Hearings and Appeals concerning your case. When it is time
for your hearing then I will represent you, cross-examine any witness and assist
you in getting approved.
Fifth,
Fees are due when you get your check after being approved. For more detailed
information on fees and out of pocket expenses please refer to that section in
the initial page.