Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be a frustrating and time-consuming experience. The Social Security Administration, or SSA, provides monthly disability benefits to individuals who have a mental or physical impairment that prevents them from maintaining a job. However, the SSA denies the majority of disability benefit applications. Fortunately, you can appeal the SSA’s denial if you disagree with the SSA’s determination regarding your condition. First, you can request a reconsideration of your application. If your application is denied after the request for reconsideration, you can request an Administrative Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge, or ALJ.
The Administrative Hearing is an informal hearing, which usually occurs in a room similar to a conference room. You and your Ocala disability lawyer will be present, in addition to the ALJ, the ALJ’s assistant and any witnesses who may be testifying at the hearing. Witnesses testify under oath, and all parties are able to question all witnesses. In addition, the claimant can submit additional information to the ALJ that was not included in the original disability application.
Each Administrative Hearing will vary. For example, the number of questions the ALJ asks the claimant will vary according to the claimant’s condition and the ALJ’s preferences. In addition, some ALJ’s are very strict regarding how much time a claimant can have for an opening statement or whether a witness may remain in the hearing room or must wait outside for the witness’s turn to testify.
If you are not already represented by an Ocala disability lawyer, contact CJ Henry today for a free initial consultation. CJ will discuss with you what to expect prior to your Administrative Hearing.
