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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / SOCIAL SECURITY

Legal Questions & Answers About Social Security

How long does the process take?

Unfortunately, the process can be lengthy just as in any other time you are dealing with the federal government. The Social Security Disability claim process is broken down into phases and the duration of each phase can differ. The initial application process can take anywhere from 3-5 months to receive a response. Reconsideration phase is another 3-5 months and getting a hearing with an administrative law judge can take as long as 12-18 months and it only gets worse from there. Having adequate legal representation can greatly decrease the time in which a claim is decided.

Can I afford to hire a lawyer?

Yes, absolutely. The federal government regulates the fees in which a lawyer or legal represent can charge for their services. Fees can only be deducted from Past Due Benefits, never out of a client’s pocket and no upfront retainer fees. This is referred to as a contingency fee agreement.

When should I hire a lawyer?

In August of 2010, a report published by the Office of the Inspector General of the Social Security Administration found that having representation as early as possible significantly improves the likelihood that the disability benefits claim will be approved. We invite you to contact us at any time during the process, but the sooner the better.

Will I need to go to court?

For the first two phases, called Initial Application and Reconsideration, there is no court appearance required by any party. If the claim is still denied after the first two attempts, you can and will be called to court to appear in front of an administrative law judge. Any further hearings will likely be held in a court room setting as well.

Accidents

  • I’ve just been in a car accident. What do I do now?
  • What do you need from me to file a claim?
  • When should I seek medical help?
  • What can I do to help my attorney?
  • My accident has limited my mobility. Can you send someone to me?
  • How much is my auto accident claim worth?
  • The insurance companies are asking me to sign paperwork, what do I do?
  • Do I need pictures of the accident?
  • What do I do with my witness information?
  • I don’t have motorcycle insurance. Can I still file a claim for my motorcycle accident?
  • My police report is wrong. What do I do?
  • I heard jurors have a prejudice against motorcycle riders, is this true?
  • How long will it take for my case to settle?
  • How do I get started in my claim?

Personal Injury

  • What Are The Common Types of Personal Injury Claims?
  • How Will Your Personal Injury Attorneys Will Handle My Case?

Catastrophic Injury

  • How much does it cost to hire an injury lawyer?
  • What can I do to help my attorney?
  • How long will it take for my case to settle?

Worker’s Comp

  • Can I sue my employer for an injury on the job?
  • When should I hire a lawyer?
  • Does my employer have to give me my job back once I heal?
  • Am I going to be paid for my time out of work?
  • Am I entitled to a settlement from L&I?

Wrongful Death

  • What Is A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
  • How Do I Know If I Have A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
  • What Causes Wrongful Death?

Medical Malpractice

  • What is Medical Malpractice?
  • How do I know if I have a Medical Malpractice claim?
  • How much does it cost to hire an injury lawyer?

Maritime & Jones Act Claims

  • Who does the Jones Act apply to?
  • What are you entitled to when injured?

Social Security

  • How long does the process take?
  • Can I afford to hire a lawyer?
  • When should I hire a lawyer?
  • Will I need to go to court?

Get a Free Case Review

Call: 800-708-6000 for a free and confidential consultation with an experienced attorney at the Phillips Law Firm.

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Woodinville

17410 133rd Ave NE
Suite #301
Woodinville, WA 98072

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Renton

707 South Grady Way,
Suite 600
Renton, WA 98057

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Seattle

1420 5th Ave Suite 2200
Seattle, WA 98101
By Appointment Only

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