Florida Social Security Disability Benefits Attorney

Social Security Disability benefits provide vital financial support to individuals whose mental health, addiction-related, or other disabling conditions prevent them from working. If you are struggling to navigate the complex application or appeal process, an attorney who specializes in Social Security Disability claims can help you understand your options, gather the necessary
medical evidence, and advocate on your behalf to maximize your chances of approval.

The team at Astor Simovitch Law has decades of experience handling these complex claims and is ready to guide you through every step of the process with knowledge, compassion, and personalized attention.

What Are Social Security Disability Benefits?

Social Security Disability benefits were established to recognize that individuals with serious physical or mental impairments may be unable to work and require a legal framework to ensure they receive the financial support they need. The program’s key provisions allow individuals whose conditions meet the Social Security Administration’s strict eligibility criteria to obtain monthly benefits and, in many cases, access to healthcare programs such as Medicare or Medicaid.

Because the application and appeal process can be complex and challenging, anyone who believes they may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits can seek guidance from an attorney who specializes in these claims. Consulting with a Social Security Disability attorney can help you understand your options, navigate the process, and maximize your chances of securing the benefits you are entitled to.

Overview Of The Process For Social Security Disability Benefits

Social Security Disability benefits can be obtained through several different paths, depending on whether you are applying for the first time or appealing a denial. These include:

• Filing an initial application for SSDI or SSI benefits with the Social Security
  Administration;
• Requesting reconsideration after an initial denial of your claim;
• Requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge if your reconsideration is
  denied; and
• Appealing to the Social Security Appeals Council or federal court if necessary.

If you are concerned that your disabling condition prevents you from working and you want to secure the benefits you are entitled to, having a competent Social Security Disability attorney to guide you through the process allows you to focus on your health and well-being while your legal team advocates on your behalf.

Process and Criteria for Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

Navigating the process to apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI or SSI) benefits can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the SSA’s requirements. In this section, we provide a basic overview of the steps that need to be followed when filing an initial application or pursuing an appeal.

APPLICATION

The first step is to file an application for SSDI or SSI benefits with the Social Security Administration. You may file on your own, but working with an attorney who specializes in Social Security Disability claims can help ensure that your application is accurate, complete, and fully documents your disabling condition. For SSI applicants, you must meet income and resource limits to be eligible.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

• The SSA will only approve a claim if there is sufficient medical and vocational evidence to show that your condition:
• Prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity;
• Is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death; and
• Is documented by medical records and other evidence showing the severity and functional limitations of your condition.

EVIDENCE

Compelling medical and vocational evidence must be presented to the SSA for your claim to be approved. Your attorney can help you gather and organize this evidence, which may include medical records, treatment notes, doctors’ statements, and testimony from others who can describe the functional impact of your condition. Strong documentation of your limitations is critical, particularly for claims involving mental health or addiction-related impairments. At higher levels, vocational experts may also be utilized to assess work limitations.

HEARING AND DECISION

If your initial claim is denied, you may request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. At the hearing, you (or your representative) present evidence, and medical or vocational experts may testify. The judge will review all submitted materials and testimony before issuing a decision. If approved, you will begin receiving monthly benefits and you may also gain access to healthcare programs such as Medicare or Medicaid. If your claim is denied, you may request a review by the SSA Appeals Council, and if still denied, you may appeal to federal court.

How Can an Attorney Help Me?

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a confusing and stressful process, especially when your ability to work is already impacted by a physical or mental impairment. The guidance and support of an experienced Social Security Disability attorney can be invaluable as you navigate the SSA’s complex rules and procedures. An attorney will:

• Evaluate your case to determine whether you meet the SSA’s eligibility criteria for SSDI or SSI, review your medical records, and advise you on the best approach to support your claim;
• Prepare and submit your application or appeal accurately, ensuring all required forms, medical documentation, and supporting evidence are properly presented;
• Advocate on your behalf during hearings before Administrative Law Judges or appeals before the SSA, presenting your case clearly and effectively;
• Assist in gathering expert testimony or additional medical evidence if needed to strengthen your claim; and
• Guide you through subsequent steps, including requests for reconsideration or appeals, to maximize your chances of approval.

Working with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney gives you confidence that your claim is handled professionally, your rights are protected, and you have the best possible chance of receiving the benefits you deserve.

Meet Florida’s Leading Social Security Disability Attorneys

The team at Astor Simovitch Law has helped countless clients across Florida navigate the complex Social Security Disability system to secure the benefits they need. We are passionate about using our legal knowledge and experience to advocate for individuals whose physical or mental health conditions prevent them from working.

We strive to provide personalized guidance and meticulous attention to every case, ensuring that your application or appeal is handled with the highest level of care. Our attorneys work closely with medical providers, vocational experts, and clients to build strong, evidence-based claims tailored to each individual’s circumstances.

For a compassionate, trustworthy, and highly qualified Social Security Disability attorney, contact us today at 561-419-6095.