It’s always a good idea to hire an attorney when you must appeal a denial of disability benefits. However, you should find one with the right traits to ensure you’ll be more successful in your appeal. Here are five things you should look for in a disability attorney to ensure you get the benefits you deserve.
Good Client Reviews
When looking for an attorney, start with recommendations from a friend or family member. After you get those leads, look up the attorneys online and see how previous clients reviewed them.
You may find that the lawyers have testimonials on their web pages that can tell you about how they provided counsel. That feedback can help you decide if you have found someone who will meet your needs.
A Level of Professionalism
Something else you should look for in a disability attorney is a high level of professionalism. When you begin communicating with them, study their behavior. Are they quite prompt in returning your phone calls or emails?
Do they make you feel comfortable when you talk to them and show no signs of judgment? If so, you may be closer to finding the attorney you need.
The Right Expertise
One of the reasons why you should hire an attorney for your disability claim is that they have more competence with legal matters than you do. But when you meet with them, make sure they specialize in the appeal you’re trying to make.
For example, if you’re making a short-term disability claim, seek a professional who has made that their specialty instead of different types of cases. The latter may not be able to advise you properly.
Awards for Their Work
When you look at the attorney’s website or visit their office in person, see if they have won any awards for their work. Such recognition can make you feel more confident about the attorney and their services. You may also want to inquire if they are members of any associations.
Strong Approval Rates
You should look for strong approval rates in your disability lawyer. Don’t be afraid to ask about their past cases and how successful they were at getting the benefits their clients wanted. Being forthcoming and open about these rates is a good sign that they’re very professional.
After finding an attorney with all these traits, you’ll be ready to appeal your disability claim. If you must go to court, do it with the best counsel you can find.
