Social Security Disability Lawyer In Paterson
Last updated on October 20, 2026
With more than 40 years of legal experience, Steven Gaechter guides you through each stage of your disability claim. He answers your questions and stays by your side throughout the process. At The Law Offices of Steven Gaechter, our attorney personally handles every case instead of passing it to an associate or paralegal.
How Do SSDI And SSI Differ?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to people with a qualifying disability who earned enough work credits through payroll or self-employment taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) serves adults and children with limited resources who are blind, have a disability or are 65 or older.
For adult disability claims under either program, your condition must prevent you from performing substantial work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) must find that this limitation has lasted or will last at least 12 months, or that your condition will result in death.
What Happens After A Claim Denial?
The SSA denies many claims at the first stage, and you generally have 60 days after receiving a denial notice to appeal. Disability appeals in Paterson involve up to four levels:
- Reconsideration by a new claims examiner
- Hearing before an administrative law judge
- Review by the Appeals Council
- Lawsuit in federal district court
The hearing lets you explain your limitations to a judge. As an SSDI lawyer serving Paterson, attorney Gaechter questions any vocational expert who testifies about jobs you could still perform.
What Can An Attorney Do That A Nonattorney Advocate Cannot?
Federal rules allow nonattorney advocates to handle disability claims, and several national companies use them instead of lawyers. The attorney vs. advocate distinction in Social Security cases matters after an Appeals Council denial. Only a licensed attorney may represent you in federal court.
If you win there and meet the Equal Access to Justice Act’s rules, the government must pay reasonable attorney fees. Exceptions apply if its position had a reasonable basis in law and fact or if special circumstances make an award unfair.
Where Is The Social Security Office For Paterson Residents?
The Paterson field office is on the first floor at 200 Federal Plaza, Paterson, NJ 07505. The SSA asks visitors to call 800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment before arriving.
For a disability application, it helps to bring a photo ID, last year’s W-2 or self-employment tax return and a list of your doctors and medications. You also have the option to apply for SSDI online.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Social Security Disability Lawyer?
Our contingency fee needs approval from Social Security or the court, and you pay no attorney fee unless you receive benefits. Call 201-546-5758 for a free phone consultation and Paterson disability benefits help in English, Spanish or Portuguese. Our attorney also offers evening appointments and home visits when travel is difficult.