Law Offices of Judith Leland, APLC

If physical issues have ended your worklife, the question is not, "Are you feeling anxious or depressed?" The question is, "How could you not be feeling anxious or depressed?" Even if your disability is solely limited to physical problems, you would likely benefit from mental health services. My 8-page booklet, "10 Things Your Social Security Disability Attorney Wishes You Knew," explains more.

If your initial application for disability benefits was denied, know that you are not alone. 2 out of 3 people who apply are denied. However, over half of those who appeal will be awarded benefits. The disability evaluation system is dysfunctional in that way -- most applications are rejected and most appeals are granted. Learn how to improve your odds of success in my 4-page booklet, "Helpful Suggestions for Appealing a Denial of Benefits."

A few mistakes commonly made by unrepresented disability claimants are: (1) overstating job duties or education, (2) listing only the worst medical condition, and (3) failing to seek medical treatment. "18 Common Mistakes Made by Unrepresented Disability Claimants" lists more.

The Social Security Administration uses a 5-step test to determine whether a person meets the definition of disabled. Each step is a hurdle that must be overcome in order to win benefits. Learn whether you should apply with my 8-page booklet, "Quiz: Will You Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?"

Leland Law - Keeping a Symptom Diary

Social Security disability hearings typically go like this: the judge gives the case history and hears your testimony, your lawyer questions your witnesses, the judge questions any expert witnesses, and your lawyer's makes the closing argument. Occasionally, the judge will provide an immediate decision, but it usually arrives a few days later. See "Social Security Disability Hearing Guide" for more information.

Sincere, straightforward testimony from one or more lay (non-expert) witnesses can play a critical role in a Social Security disability hearing. How we will work to obtain and prepare lay witnesses to make a positive impact on your case is detailed in my 8-page booklet, "Lay Witness Testimony at Your Social Security Disability Hearing."

It's normal to be nervous as your Social Security disability hearing approaches. However, if you know what to expect, you can stop worrying about how the day will unfold and instead focus on giving your best testimony. Learn how to do exactly that in my 12-page booklet, "Social Security Disability Hearing Guide."

Leland Law - Common Mistakes in Appealing a Denial of Benefits

If your Social Security disability decision was favorable, you may be wondering what comes next. Do you need to visit a Social Security office? How long will you have to wait before your back benefits are paid? How is your monthly benefit amount calculated? My 20-page booklet "65 FAQs About Social Security Disability Benefits" answers these questions and more.

Check out "Helpful Suggestions for Appealing a Denial of Benefits" for more on: (1) why most applications are initially rejected, (2) tips for a successful appeal, (3) common mistakes to avoid, and (4) answers to frequently asked questions.

SSDI and SSI: Know the differences http://bit.ly/2o1uEyW

Adult children with a disability can apply for benefits under parents' earnings.

Securing benefits for disabled adult children http://bit.ly/2nuE1Xq