Monday, October 19, 2015

All About Disability Hearings

If you have been denied in the application process, you might want to request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The legal professionals at Kassin and Carrow have some important information for you with regards to this process. If you reside in Alton, Illinois or elsewhere in the Metro East St. Louis area, this information is for you.

How much time will it take to get a hearing on a Social Security disability claim?

There is some variation throughout the country, but the nationwide average is a bit over one year.

ssi ssdi social security disability kassin and carrow
What's the Social Security hearing like?

The hearings are very informal. The only people apt to be there are the judge, a court staff member operating a tape recorder, the claimant, the claimant's legal representative, and anyone else the claimant has brought with them. In some instances, the ALJ has a physician or vocational expert present to testify at the hearing. There isn't a jury nor are there spectators at the hearing.

What are my odds of winning at a hearing?

About 50% of claimants who go to a Social Security disability hearing win. About 90% have representation from a qualified attorney like those with Kassin and Carrow at their hearing.

If the Administrative Law Judge denies my claim, can I appeal anymore?

Yes. You may appeal to the Appeals Council in the Social Security Administration.

What is the Appeals Council?

The SSA Appeals Council reviews decisions made by the ALJ. The Appeals Council is able to reverse a decision made by the ALJ. If the Appeals Council thinks more info is necessary, they could remand your claim for an additional hearing with the ALJ.

What if I disagree with a ruling made by the Appeals Council?

If you disagree with the judgment made by the Appeals Council, you can file a civil action suit in the United States District Court, and then appeal to the Circuit Court.  A Social Security disability claim could go all the way to the Supreme Court. Every one or two years, the United States Supreme Court hears an appeal involving a Social Security disability case.

Kassin and Carrow have years of experience managing all kinds of Social Security Insurance (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. If you think you may be qualified to receive disability, contact them today to have them take a look at your case.

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