Do you have a Washington DC Social Security hearing? If so, you may be wondering how to have the best chance of winning. Below are tips from Emmett B. Irwin, a Disability Lawyer serving Washington DC. Click here for Judges’ Stats for Washington DC Social Security Hearings.
5. Give the Judge a “Straight Answer.”
When the Judge or your lawyer (if you have one) asks you a question, give a straight, to the point, truthful answer. After the answer, you can explain why you answered the way you did. If you have a lawyer (you should!), the lawyer will help clarify your answer if necessary by asking you follow-up questions. At the end of the hearing most judges also ask “would you like to say anything else in support of your case?” Then you’ll have a final chance to clarify your testimony. And if you’re searching for a Disability Lawyer serving Washington DC, call us!
4. Know Your “Past Relevant Work.”
If you are 50 years old or older, your “past relevant work” will be a major issue at the hearing. The judge and your lawyer (if you are represented) will ask you a number of questions about every job you’ve done in the last 15 years. Then the Vocational Expert (VE) will testify about your past work and what skills it should have given you. Details of your past work can win or lose a case, and the rules are complex. Having a disability lawyer (Washington DC) is almost always recommended.
3. Be Prepared!
Your lawyer (if you have one) will ask you questions in the hearing, and the Judge will probably ask you questions. That’s it, there is no lawyer for the other side like on TV. But sometimes the Judge will ask you questions as if they are cross-examining you. So be well prepared! A Disability Lawyer serving Washington DC can help you get prepared for your hearing.
2. Did We Say Get a Lawyer?
Ok, we know it sounds self-serving. But seriously, get a lawyer! These hearings are too complex to go forward without a lawyer. And SSA rules prohibit lawyers from charging a fee unless you win back pay. The set fee for all representatives is 25% of back pay with a $7200 cap. It’s a no-brainer! Contact us if you want to talk to a Disability Lawyer serving Washington DC.
1. Tell the truth!
Credibility is everything to most judges. If a judge thinks you’re lying, they will probably find you not disabled. If a judge thinks you’re telling the truth, they will probably approve your case. You may think that a truthful answer might damage your case, and that may be true, but lying will hurt your case more than telling the truth. Honesty is the best policy!
How to Get Help From a Disability Lawyer in Washington DC
The hearing process in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) can be quite overwhelming. But you don’t have to go it alone! Contact us if you need a free case evaluation, and see if we’ll take your case. And you’ll never pay a fee unless you win. What have you got to lose? Call now!