A Denver Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Help You Win Your Case

Most Colorado residents who file an initial claim for Social Security disability benefits are blissfully unaware of how complicated the process can be.  If you plan on going it alone without legal representation, there are many important things to learn before you get started.  In many cases, Colorado SSI claims are denied the first time around because claimants didn’t present enough evidence of their disability. Working with a local Denver Social Security Disability Lawyer can dramatically improve your chances of winning.

Let’s start with how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability.  In order to receive SSI disability benefits, one must be considered completely disabled and unable to work for a minimum of one year.  This includes the type of work the claimant has done in their past career, as well as any other type of work.  Unlike veteran’s disability benefits or workman’s compensation, it does not allow for partial disabilities. The definition of “other work” is based on the claimant’s age, education and any physical or mental restrictions.  Whenever possible, judges expect people to transfer their existing skills to a new line of work. 

While the local Social Security office tells people their claim decision will be made in 90 to 120 days, the actual timeframe can be much longer.  Even at the initial claim level, Disability Determination Services can take several months to a year to make a decision.  And if the decision is not favorable, an appeals decision could take just as long.  Missing an appeals deadline means the claimant must start the whole process over again by filing an initial claim. 

For claimants whose initial claim was denied, the best chance of winning Social Security benefits will be a hearing with the administrative law judge.  At this stage, representation from a local Denver Social Security Disability lawyer is highly recommended.  An experienced Social Secuirty Disability attorney will ensure that all appeals are filed in a timely manner, and present the case professionally before the judge. 

If you are seeking legal representation for a Social Security Disability claim in Colorado, contact the team of attorneys at Clawson & Clawson, LLP for a free consultation.