Get Experienced Legal Representation
Has your Social Security Disability claim been denied? Many initial applications don’t receive approval from the Social Security Administration (SSA). When you’re unable to work due to a serious disability, being denied benefits can be both disheartening and stressful. Fortunately, you can appeal the SSA’s decision with help from the Patrick J. Kelly Law Office.
Our disability appeals lawyer in San Francisco provides skilled legal representation to disabled individuals whose claims have been denied. If you’re fighting for disability benefits, our legal team is here to guide you through each step of the appeals process. Contact our law firm today to schedule a free consultation!
Understanding the Disability Appeals Process
Receiving a denial letter from the Social Security Administration can be devastating. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get the benefits you need. Many deserving applicants in San Francisco eventually receive their benefits through the appeals process.
At the Patrick J. Kelly Law Office, we understand how the disability appeals system works. Our experience navigating these cases through local Social Security offices gives our clients a distinct advantage.
The Social Security Disability appeals process involves these stages:
- Reconsideration: We file a request for reconsideration with the SSA promptly after your initial denial. We’ll address any issues with your original application and identify errors. We’ll also gather additional, stronger medical evidence to add to your claim.
- Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing: If you filed a reconsideration request that was unsuccessful, we can represent you at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is often the most crucial step in the appeals process, and most approvals occur at this stage.
- Appeals Council Review: If you had a hearing that resulted in a denial, we can request a review by the Appeals Council. The Council will either review the ALJ’s decision or deny the request. If they do review the decision, they’ll either make a new decision themselves or send your case back to the ALJ for further review.
- Federal Court Appeal: When necessary, we can file a civil suit in a Federal district court.
Why Choose Our San Francisco Disability Appeals Attorney?
As your disability appeals lawyer in San Francisco, the Patrick J. Kelly Law Office offers:
- Local Knowledge
We understand the unique aspects of disability cases in San Francisco, including which medical evidence is most persuasive to local judges and how to effectively present your case.
- Comprehensive Preparation
We thoroughly prepare for your ALJ hearing. We gather additional medical evidence, obtain expert testimony when needed, and prepare you for questions you’ll likely face.
- Personalized Representation
We take the time to understand your specific medical condition(s), work history, and limitations to build a compelling case for disability.
- Proven Track Record
Our office has successfully represented many San Francisco residents through the disability appeals process, securing the benefits they deserve.
SSDI & SSI Disability Appeals in San Francisco: Our Approach
We handle both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) appeals. SSDI is for disabled workers who have paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. SSI is for disabled, blind, or aged (65 and older) individuals with limited income and resources. The main difference between SSDI and SSI is that you don’t need a work history to qualify for SSI.
The Patrick J. Kelly Law Office uses a careful strategy when appealing all claim denials. Our approach as your SSDI or SSI disability appeal representative in San Francisco includes:
- Determining the reasons for your denial and explaining each step of the appeals process.
- Clarifying all financial and medical eligibility requirements.
- Working closely with San Francisco healthcare providers. We collect detailed documentation to explain your condition and how it limits your ability to work.
- Helping you understand and follow the SSA’s complex guidelines.
- Communicating with the SSA on your behalf.
- Preparing and submitting necessary forms and supporting documents on time to avoid missed deadlines that could jeopardize your case. We ensure that all paperwork is accurate, complete, and includes the information most likely to support your claim.
- Advocating for you at hearings, presenting your case, addressing questions, and questioning medical and vocational experts.
Our law firm will also connect you with medical and support services in San Francisco, CA. Our goal as your appeals attorney is to make sure you get the support you need at every turn during your case.
Taking Action: Next Steps for Your Disability Appeal
If you’ve received a disability denial in San Francisco, time is limited to file your appeal. The Patrick J. Kelly Law Office can help you navigate strict deadlines and build a stronger case for the benefits you deserve.
Our process begins with a free consultation to review your denial notice, assess your case, and explain your options. We’ll discuss the specific reasons for your denial and develop a strategy to address these issues in your appeal.
Contact Our San Francisco Disability Appeals Lawyer Today
The Patrick J. Kelly Law Office provides the representation San Francisco residents need to successfully appeal denied disability claims.
We handle all aspects of your appeal, from gathering new medical records to representing you at disability hearings. Working with our appeals lawyer helps ensure you don’t miss important deadlines or make mistakes on your application.
Contact us now to arrange a free consultation and start the process to achieve the benefits you need. Our office serves clients throughout San Francisco and all surrounding neighborhoods.
Let our experienced San Francisco disability appeals attorney fight for the benefits you deserve!