Odessa, TX Social Security Disability Lawyers

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is one of the largest of several United States Federal programs with the purpose of providing assistance to persons with disabilities. Workers pay into SSDI out of their paychecks. When a worker suffers an injury or disability, they can file a claim to get benefits if they are no longer able to work. Before a disabled worker can get SSDI benefits, they have to qualify and go through the application process. Unfortunately, some workers in Texas are improperly denied benefits and have to turn to a Social Security disability lawyer for legal advice.

Disabled workers can file their own claim or a Social Security disability attorney can help you file a claim. After you find a Social Security disability attorney, your lawyer can advise you of your rights and options, help you compile the medical records necessary to support your claim, and file the claim with the appropriate Social Security Administration (SSA) office near Odessa, Texas. If your claim is denied, your experienced attorney can handle the appeal to make sure you get the benefits you deserve.

You or your disability attorney can request a Social Security disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). An appeal has to be requested within 60 days after you receive notice of the SSA decision. If your appeal is filed too late, your claim may be dismissed. Claimants have the right to legal representation during the hearing. The hearing may be in-person or through video teleconference.

Your Social Security disability lawyer can submit any additional evidence to the judge before the hearing. During the hearing, the judge may question the applicant, and ask to hear from witnesses and the applicant's doctors. You and your lawyer may also be able to question any witnesses and submit additional evidence. After the hearing, the judge will provide a written decision regarding your claim.

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Use the contact form on the profiles to connect with an Odessa, Texas attorney for legal advice.

Consider the following:

Comfort Level

- Are you comfortable telling the lawyer personal information? Does the lawyer seem interested in solving your problem?

Credentials

- How long has the lawyer been in practice? Has the lawyer worked on other cases similar to yours?

Cost

- How are the lawyer's fees structured - hourly or flat fee? Can the lawyer estimate the cost of your case?

City

- Is the lawyer's office conveniently located near you?

Here are a few to get you started:

• How long have you been in practice?
• How many cases like mine have you handled?
• How often do you settle cases out of court?
• What are your fees and costs?
• What are the next steps?

To find the right Texas lawyer, you need to ask questions pertinent to your legal case. You should find an attorney to meet your specific needs. Questions to ask before hiring a lawyer may include:

• How much experience do you have with cases like mine?
• Do you know the judge or prosecutor in this case?
• Should I take this case to mediation?
• What are your legal fees and expenses?
• Are you available after hours for questions?
• Which lawyers or associates will I be dealing with?
• Do I have to appear in person for my case?
• Where is your Texas law office located?

Some people find a lawyer based on a recommendation from a friend or family member but you should do your own evaluation. A friend who suggested a divorce attorney may not be in the best position to recommend a criminal defense law attorney or tax lawyer. Dealing with legal issues can be complicated and frustrating. You should find the right lawyer that you can connect with to provide you with information, advice, and the legal aid you need.

The cost of hiring a lawyer can depend on the type of law and the complexity of the case.Some lawyers offer a free initial consultation. A free consultation is more common in contingency fee cases like personal injury or medical malpractice. Some lawyers may require a fee for the initial interview. During the initial interview, the lawyer may be able to provide some important information, including your legal options, likely outcomes, and cost of legal services.An initial interview is also an opportunity for you to see if this person is the right lawyer for you.

The State Bar of Texas keeps Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct records of violations or grievances against attorneys in the state. You can use the search tool on the state bar website to check an attorney's public disciplinary history. The state bar search results should show the lawyer's disciplinary history (if any) in Texas and other states.