When choosing a Social Security Disability attorney, ask about their experience with cases like yours, who will personally handle your case, how they prepare clients for hearings, how you will communicate, and how their contingency fees work. The right answers help ensure your attorney is experienced, responsive, and the right fit for your case.
The questions below are organized by topic. Bring this list to your consultation and work through each topic so you leave with a clear picture of how the attorney will handle your claim.
1. Experience
- How many cases like mine have you handled?
- What's your success rate?
- Are you familiar with my specific disability?
2. Who Handles Your Case
- Will you personally handle my case, or will a case manager take over?
- Who will represent me at the hearing?
3. Case Selection
- What types of cases do you usually take?
- Have you worked with clients whose conditions are similar to mine?
4. Hearing Preparation
- How do you prepare clients for hearings?
- Do you provide coaching or mock interviews?
5. Communication
- How do we stay in touch?
- Will I have direct contact with you or your staff?
- How often should I expect updates?
6. Fees
- How do your fees work?
- Do you follow SSA's standard contingency fee?
- Are there any extra charges I should know about?
7. Appeals
- Will you help with appeals if my case is denied again?
- If my case is denied again, what's the next step?
8. References and Reviews
- Can you provide references or reviews?
- What do former clients say about working with you?
9. What Sets Them Apart
- What sets you apart from other disability attorneys?
- Why should I choose you over another attorney?
Bring these questions to your consultation so you can choose the best advocate for your claim.