Areas of Practice
Maryland Social Security Disability Lawyers
Disability can have long-lasting impacts on the lives of victims and families. From loss of mobility to loss of earning potential, disability is no joke. In fact, in 2005 alone, nearly 7.5 million Americans were paid Social Security disability benefits totaling nearly $76 billion.
The Social Security program was implemented in 1956 and designed to offer cash benefits to disabled Americans. Nearly 87 percent of Social Security beneficiaries are or were at one time workers; the average age of a Social Security disability payment recipient is 52 and a slight majority of recipients are men. The United States Social Security Act defines disability as “ the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”
There are a number of misunderstandings concerning Social Security disability. These include the misperception that disability payments are only for those who are broke or destitute, that there are long wait times or that workers receiving workers’ compensation benefits cannot apply. Unfortunately, it is hard to determine whether you are actually disabled based on Social Security’s definition of disability if you have not suffered a catastrophic disability such as the loss of your legs. Social Security makes a determination on your disability based on a medical records review and analysis of factors such as work experience, age, and education.
If you are concerned about whether your Social Security claim will be honored, remember that honesty is the best policy. Many potential beneficiaries fail to accurately report psychological factors or medical histories that can affect the outcome of a request for Social Security disability. Unfortunately, many who claim Social Security benefits also fail to appeal the decision when their claim is denied, even though most denials can be resolved on a higher level.
If your Social Security disability claim is denied, know that you can appeal and that you are allowed legal representation. An experienced Social Security disability lawyer can help guide you through the process and help you get the benefits you deserve for your disability. However, when you seek a lawyer, seek one who has a long track record with Social Security benefits and understands the ins and outs of the SS system.
The law offices of Steven H. Heisler represent injury victims and help disabled persons get Social Security disability benefits. If you need legal advice on Social Security disability or want to appeal a denied claim, contact Steven H. Heisler for more information today. A consultation is free and carries no obligation.