Gordon Gates writes about how he tries to make each case different and memorable when preparing to go to hearing.
I am always concerned that a particular claim will not get the attention it deserves at the hearing level, due to the tremendous workload at the Social Security hearing offices. Each administrative law judge decides several hundred claims every year.
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I have an upcoming hearing with a client who has an unusual story. The medical evidence is very good, and the claim should be granted at hearing. Nevertheless, I am spending a great deal of time on the claimant’s story…, because it is so unusual. That story will be the hook that draws the judge into the case.
I agree completely!
In my office, I regularly meet with my clients and listen to their stories. Every once in a while I hear something that rings a bell. My eyebrows jump, and I make sure to write down that story in my notes.
Every individual applying for Social Security has had unique experiences related to their disability. It does not have to be anything big. I am not talking about a trip to the ICU.
I am talking about uniquely personal experiences that highlight an individual’s disability.
As I have written before, Social Security hearings are mostly credibility assessments. Can the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) believe what you tell him/her about how much your condition affects you. These unique stories can make your case memorable to the ALJ, and can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
This is another reason why it is important to work directly with a skilled attorney. A good lawyer can help you identify the stories that can make a difference in your case.
It also means if you have a lawyer, but you are just meeting with the legal assistant; the lawyer, the one person you are counting on to convey your case effectively at your hearing, may not know the story that could win your case.
Click here to read Gordon’s article: Differentiate your Social Security claim.
What was your experience with a lawyer at your Social Security hearing? Tell me in the comments!
