The Short Answer:
Choosing the right disability lawyer is about more than finding someone who knows Social Security rules—it’s about selecting an advocate who can guide you through every step of your claim and any appeals that follow. The best attorneys combine proven experience with a clear legal strategy, explain their fees up front, and keep you informed with consistent communication.
Before you hire anyone, ask about their track record with disability claims, how they handle challenges or denials, and what you can do to strengthen your application. A strong lawyer will outline the documents you’ll need, clarify whether you can keep working while your claim is pending, and prepare you for what to expect at every stage.
Key Takeaways
- Experience counts: Choose a lawyer who has successfully handled many Social Security disability claims, including appeals.
- Clear game plan: Your attorney should explain how they’ll approach your case and identify any potential challenges early on.
- Transparent fees: SSDI lawyers generally work on contingency, with fees capped by federal law—usually no more than 25% of your backpay or $9,200.
- Consistent communication: Ask how often you’ll receive updates and whether you’ll speak directly with the attorney or primarily with their staff.
- Preparation matters: Start gathering medical records, employment history, and other key documents as soon as possible to strengthen your claim.
- Be ready for setbacks: Understand the appeals process and what steps your lawyer will take if your claim is denied.
- Local insight helps: A lawyer familiar with the judges, court staff, and consultative examinations in your area can help streamline your case.
Experience and Case Handling
1. What Is Your Experience with Disability Claims?
An attorney who regularly handles Social Security Disability (SSDI) claims knows how to navigate complex rules, medical evidence, and deadlines. Experience can be the difference between a smooth process and frustrating delays. At The McMahan Law Firm, we tackle SSDI cases every day, so we know how to build a claim that stands up to scrutiny.
2. Do You Handle Cases at All Levels of Appeal?
Initial SSDI applications are often denied, so it’s essential to work with a lawyer who will stick with you through reconsideration, hearings before an administrative law judge, and even federal court appeals if needed. A firm with a strong track record at every level—like The McMahan Law Firm—can give you confidence no matter how far your case goes.
3. What Are the Potential Challenges in My Case?
An experienced attorney can identify any potential issues—such as gaps in medical records, missed deadlines, or complicated work histories—before they derail your claim. Knowing these challenges upfront allows you and your lawyer to build a stronger strategy.
4. How Do You Plan To Handle My Claim?
Ask for a clear outline of their approach, including how they’ll gather evidence, prepare you for hearings, and respond to potential denials. A well-structured plan shows they understand the process and have a strategy for success. With a clear plan laid out, you can expect your attorney to keep you updated and involved in every step.
5. Can I Continue To Work While My Claim Is Pending?
Limited work may be allowed, but it can affect your eligibility. Your lawyer should explain how part-time employment or earning above specific limits might impact your benefits. Your lawyer can help you figure out what the right answer is for your case.
Fees and Communication
6. How Do You Charge for Your Services?
Before hiring a disability lawyer, it’s important to understand exactly how fees will work—whether that means a flat rate, hourly billing, or another arrangement. Ask for a clear explanation of all costs up front, including any expenses for obtaining medical records or preparing evidence, so there are no surprises later. The McMahan Law Firm discusses fees in detail during your free consultation and provides a written agreement so you know exactly what to expect.
7. How Often Will We Communicate, and How?
Clear and regular communication with legal counsel is key during a disability claim. Ask how often you can expect updates and whether you’ll be contacted by phone, email, or another method. Understanding their preferred communication method helps you set realistic expectations.
8. Will I Speak With You Personally or a Paralegal/Assistant?
It’s common for paralegals or case managers to handle routine updates, but we will keep the lines of communication open so you can have direct access to your attorney when important decisions arise.
9. How Often Will We Meet?
Some cases can be managed mostly by phone or email, but you may need to meet in person or virtually at certain points. Ask about regular check-ins if you want to meet regularly. But if you would prefer to only meet around key milestones—such as hearings—let your lawyer know.
10. How Long Will The Process Take?
Social Security disability cases can take several months to more than a year, depending on backlogs and whether you need to appeal. A seasoned lawyer should be able to give you a realistic timeline based on your case’s complexity and your local Social Security office’s workload.
Documentation and Evidence
11. What Documentation Do I Need To Provide?
Your lawyer will need comprehensive medical records, treatment notes, and test results to build a strong case. They may also request work history details, income records, and statements from doctors or caregivers. Ask for a checklist so you can start gathering everything early.
12. What Is the Likelihood of Success for My Claim?
While no attorney can guarantee a win, an experienced disability lawyer can give you an honest assessment of your chances based on the strength of your medical evidence, work history, and the details of your condition.
13. What Can I Do To Improve My Chances of Approval?
Your lawyer should guide you on steps like following prescribed treatments, keeping medical appointments, and maintaining thorough documentation of symptoms. These proactive measures can significantly strengthen your claim.
14. Are There Any Other Benefits I Can Claim?
In addition to SSDI or SSI, you may qualify for state disability benefits, workers’ compensation, or other public assistance programs. A knowledgeable attorney can help identify additional resources that could support you financially while you wait for a decision.
Medical and Legal Knowledge
15. Who Handles Consultative Examinations (CE)?
A consultative examination is an evaluation by an independent doctor that Social Security may require to clarify your medical condition. Ask whether your lawyer will schedule and coordinate the CE, help you prepare for it, and ensure the results are correctly added to your case file.
16. Does the Attorney Know Any Court Staff or the Local Administrative Law Judge?
Familiarity with local judges, hearing offices, and court staff isn’t a conflict of interest—it’s a sign of experience. A lawyer who regularly practices in your area is more likely to understand local procedures and preferences, which can help your case move smoothly.
17. Does the Lawyer Have Any Medical Knowledge Relevant to My Condition?
Your attorney doesn’t need to be a doctor, but they should have a working understanding of the medical issues involved in disability claims. At a minimum, they should be willing to research your specific condition to present strong evidence and accurately explain how it limits your ability to work.
Next Steps and Appeals
18. What Happens If My Claim Is Denied?
Many initial Social Security disability claims are denied. Your lawyer should explain the appeals process, including how to request reconsideration, prepare for a hearing before an administrative law judge, and what additional evidence or testimony may strengthen your case.
Contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Tennessee
Finding the right disability lawyer isn’t just about legal knowledge—it’s about choosing someone you can trust to guide you through every stage of your claim and any appeals that follow. By asking these questions, you’ll quickly identify an attorney with the experience, strategy, and communication style that fits your needs.
If you’re ready to move forward, schedule a free consultation with The McMahan Law Firm. Our experienced Chattanooga Social Security disability lawyers can review your case, explain your options, and help you build the strongest possible claim for the benefits you deserve.
