Filing for disability claims in New Jersey seems like a process requiring little more than following detailed steps. Filing out necessary forms combined with providing evidence seems simple. That said, someone decides on applications. Denials are possible, although an appeals process and hearing may lead to approval.
A Social Security Insurance hearing takes place in front of an Administrative Law Judge. The hearing follows the initial denial and denial after the reconsideration. The hearing process provides one more opportunity for disability payment approvals. Going into such a hearing unprepared may prove disastrous.
Lack of familiarity with the hearing process may lead to making mistakes regarding evidence. During the initial consideration and reconsideration periods, a disability examiner obtains the records. Medical records and physician statements represent evidence required to approve or deny the case. During a hearing, however, the claimant must bring current and further evidence. Failure to do so may lead to the judge only reviewing old evidence, the same evidence that led to the initial two denials. Expecting the judge to overturn denials based on the previous insufficient evidence would seem unrealistic.
Providing current medical records isn’t the only step to take when appearing before the judge. The claimant must present a case and answer the judge’s questions, among other things. Persons lacking the experience to do so may find themselves facing a proverbial uphill battle to overcome initial denials. Perhaps retaining the services of an attorney might prove advisable.
Hiring an attorney for the initial and reconsideration phases might lead to better outcomes. Those who did not retain representation during the earlier phases may find retaining an attorney for the hearing worthwhile.
An attorney who previously handled Social Security Disability claims and hearings could possess the experience a client lacks. Experience may prove valuable when dealing with the SSA and Administrative Court Judges.
