What Happens at a Social Security Disability Hearing?

 Posted on January 15, 2015 in Uncategorized

If you applied for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) benefits and your claim was denied, you are able to appeal the decision at a Social Security disability hearing. This hearing allows you and your attorney to go before an administrative law judge and to explain why you should be granted disability benefits.

While each disability hearing is different, many take between fifteen minutes and one hour, and are oftentimes more informal than a traditional court appearance would be. Additionally, you may find that your hearing is not even scheduled to be held in a courthouse. Depending on how far you live from the hearing site, your hearing may even occur via videoconference.

The hearing will rely on your personal testimony, a vocational expert's testimony, and any witnesses you choose to bring. Once you have arrived for your hearing, you can expect the following:

1. You and anyone else set to testify during your hearing will be sworn in to the court
2. The judge will ask you questions about your past work and limitations
3. The judge will ask the vocational expert about what types of jobs you would not be able to do because of your limitations
4. You will have the opportunity to speak on your own behalf and explain to the judge how your limitations prevent you from working

Based on the information presented during the hearing, the judge will determine whether your appeal should be approved or denied.

These hearings are generally short, so appearing on time and ready to testify is important. Applicants that show up late to their disability hearing may not have their cases heard. If you are in need of an additional appeal, you can speak with an attorney about whether or not to file an Appeals Council Review.

If your claim has been denied, our experienced Dallas SSDI attorneys at Coats & Todd can assist you in filing an appeal. Our team can identify why your claim was denied, help you request an appointment with the Social Security office, and thoroughly prepare you for your hearing. Obtaining SSDI benefits can be complicated in some cases, so it's important to make sure you have the guidance of a knowledgeable lawyer.

Request a free initial case evaluation with Coats & Todd to learn how our outstanding SSDI lawyers can help you appeal a denied claim in Texas.