How to Be Social Security Disability Attorney - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 13, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The process of applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) can be complicated, and many applicants enlist the help of an experienced attorney to navigate the system. An SSD attorney can help applicants understand the legal process and ensure their applications are properly filed. In addition, the attorney can provide guidance on gathering the necessary medical records as well as represent the applicant in court if an appeal is necessary. Ultimately, an SSD attorney can help expedite the claim process and increase the chances of a successful outcome.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a Social Security Disability Attorney is to obtain a bachelor's degree. Ideally, the degree should be in a field related to law, such as political science or sociology.
Take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). After obtaining a bachelor's degree, prospective attorneys must take and pass the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). This test is administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) and is used to assess a person's aptitude for law school.
Attend Law School. Once an individual has passed the LSAT, they must attend and graduate from an accredited law school. During law school, students should focus on classes related to Social Security Disability law, such as disability law, administrative law, and public policy.
Take and Pass the Bar Exam. After graduating from law school, individuals must take and pass the bar exam in their state of residence. The bar exam is a comprehensive test of legal knowledge and skills that must be completed before an individual can practice law in their state.
Obtain Experience. After passing the bar exam, individuals must obtain experience in the field of Social Security Disability law. This can be done by working as an associate in a law firm that specializes in disability cases or by working as a clerk in a disability law office.
Become Certified. After obtaining experience in the field of disability law, individuals must become certified as a Social Security Disability Attorney by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC). To become certified, individuals must successfully complete a rigorous examination that tests their knowledge and skills related to disability law.
Stay Current. After becoming certified, Social Security Disability Attorneys must stay current on changes to disability laws and regulations. They should attend continuing education courses or seminars related to disability law and read up-to-date legal journals on the subject.

When individuals are unable to work due to a disability, they may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Unfortunately, the process of applying for these benefits can be incredibly complex and difficult to navigate. This is where the services of a qualified Social Security Disability Attorney can be invaluable.

An experienced attorney can help applicants understand their rights, navigate the application and appeal process, and ensure that their case is presented in the best possible light. Furthermore, an attorney can provide valuable advice and representation if an applicants claim is denied, and can provide guidance on any other related issues such as filing for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). A qualified Social Security Disability Attorney can be the key to obtaining the benefits that disabled individuals desperately need.

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Job Description

Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security Disability Advocate
Social Security Disability Consultant
Social Security Disability Appeals Attorney
Social Security Disability Claims Examiner
Social Security Disability Benefits Specialist
Social Security Disability Benefits Coordinator
Social Security Disability Litigation Attorney
Social Security Disability Appeals Lawyer
Social Security Disability Appeals Representative

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge and understanding of Social Security Disability laws and regulations.
Ability to interpret legal documents and decisions.
Skilled in researching case law, relevant statutes and regulations.
Ability to effectively communicate with clients, witnesses, experts, and other attorneys.
Ability to represent clients in administrative proceedings and hearings.
Knowledge of the appeals process for denied claims.
Ability to negotiate settlements on behalf of clients.
Ability to draft legal documents such as briefs and motions.
Proficient in using and maintaining legal databases.
Understanding of medical records, medical terminology, and medical evidence.

Having a good understanding of the Social Security Disability system is essential for any Social Security Disability Attorney. This includes a comprehensive knowledge of the laws, regulations, and procedures related to SSD claims. Knowing how to navigate the system and present a compelling case for eligibility is key.

An attorney must also be able to effectively communicate with claimants, understand their disabilities, and advise them on their rights and options. they must be able to build strong relationships with medical professionals and other relevant entities to ensure that all necessary information is collected and accurately presented. Being organized, proactive, and detail-oriented are also important skills for a successful Social Security Disability Attorney.

Knowing how to work through complex issues and effectively advocate on behalf of claimants is critical to achieving the best possible outcome.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in Social Security Disability law?
How familiar are you with the Social Security Disability application process?
What strategies do you typically use to help clients win their Social Security Disability cases?
How do you keep up to date with changes in Social Security Disability law?
What is the most rewarding case you have worked on related to Social Security Disability?
What challenges have you encountered in working with Social Security Disability cases?
What do you think sets your practice apart in terms of Social Security Disability services?
Are there any areas of Social Security Disability law that you specialize in?
How do you prioritize cases to ensure clients get the best outcome possible?
What strategies do you use to ensure that clients understand the Social Security Disability process?

Common Tools in Industry

Resume Builder. Tool used to create and design professional resumes. (eg: Resume Genius)
Job Search Engines. Search engine used to find job postings online. (eg: Indeed)
Cover Letter Builder. Tool used to create personalized cover letters for job applications. (eg: LiveCareer)
Networking Platforms. Platform used to build professional connections and explore career opportunities. (eg: LinkedIn)
Interview Prep. Online resources used to prepare for job interviews. (eg: Glassdoor)
Legal Assistance. Services offered by lawyers to provide advice and representation on legal matters related to Social Security Disability. (eg: Allsup)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR)
American Association for Justice (AAJ)
American Bar Association (ABA)
National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI)
Social Security Lawyers Association (SSLPA)
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
National Employment Law Project (NELP)
National Organization on Disability (NOD)

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Common Important Terms

Social Security Disability Benefits. Benefits provided by the Social Security Administration to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability.
Appeals Process. The process by which a disabled individual can challenge an unfavorable decision by the Social Security Administration regarding their disability claim.
Vocational Expert. An expert witness who testifies as to an individuals ability to perform certain types of work.
Medical Vocational Guidelines. Guidelines used by the Social Security Administration to determine whether an individual is disabled based on their age, education, work experience, and medical condition.
Mental Impairment Listings. A list of mental disorders and the criteria used to determine if an individual is disabled based on the presence of those disorders.
Substantial Gainful Activity. The dollar amount an individual needs to earn in order to qualify as employed by the Social Security Administration.
Residual Functional Capacity Assessment. An assessment of an individuals physical and mental abilities used by the Social Security Administration to determine whether they are eligible for disability benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a Social Security Disability Attorney?

A Social Security Disability Attorney is a lawyer who assists individuals with filing for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits and represents them in hearings and appeals.

What qualifications must a Social Security Disability Attorney have?

Social Security Disability Attorneys must be licensed to practice law in their state, have experience in disability law, and have knowledge of the Social Security Administration's rules and regulations.

How much does a Social Security Disability Attorney typically charge?

Most Social Security Disability Attorneys will charge a fee of 25% of the back pay that the claimant receives from the Social Security Administration, with a maximum fee of $6,000.

What benefits can a Social Security Disability Attorney help me obtain?

A Social Security Disability Attorney can help you obtain disability benefits such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). They can also help you appeal a denied application or represent you in a hearing if your claim is denied.

What should I look for when selecting a Social Security Disability Attorney?

When selecting a Social Security Disability Attorney, it is important to look for an experienced attorney with a good record of success in the field of disability law. You should also make sure that they are familiar with the Social Security Administration's rules and regulations and are willing to work with you throughout the entire process.

Web Resources

Social Security Disability Pro Bono Project (SSDP) law.stanford.edu
Social Security Disability 2022: From Administrative Proceedings www.pli.edu
New York Social Security Disability Lawyers - Cornell University lawyers.law.cornell.edu