Social Security Disability Attorney Beaverton

While it is difficult to truly conceptualize being too ill or injured to continue working, for many Beaverton residents this is a grim reality. In fact, at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve we manage nearly 1,000 social security disability claims each year.

The social security disability fund is a federal program, and it is required for every person who earns a paycheck to pay into the fund. If you look at the pay stub that comes with your paycheck, you will see an itemized list of all of the deductions that were taken from your salary.

One of those deductions is money that you are paying into the social security disability fund. In other words, if you find yourself too injured or ill to work and you file for social security disability benefits, you are simply applying for your money. You paid into the fund. You deserve all the benefits of the fund.

Unfortunately, the social security administration doesn’t exactly see things this way, and the process to apply for and actually receive your social security disability benefits is confusing and overwhelming for most people.

In fact, it is now to the point where the best way to ensure that your application for benefits is approved, is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who knows the ins and outs of the social security administration.

There are strict guidelines that govern the social security disability approval process and, the burden is on you to submit the proof that your injury or illness has left you unable to work.

Even if you do meet all of the deadlines and prove that your condition is medically apparent, there is a good chance that your application will still be denied. In fact, there is a popular saying “everyone is denied the first time” and, that is not far from the truth.

Working with our team of expert attorneys dramatically increases your chances of having your application approved because we know the process inside and out. We can avoid any hold-ups of your application by pre-empting them.

Our team of skilled legal professionals is highly-adept at compiling a solid social security application for benefits by gathering all of the necessary medical records and personal records that will dramatically improve the chances of your application being approved and will limit your wait time.

Although we have a tremendous record, denial may still occur. If that happens, we instantly file an appeal on your behalf. We will make sure that your claim is given the consideration and time that will provide you the best chance of having your application approved.

Social Security Disability (SSD) Benefits are designed to assist you. These benefits are yours; you paid into the system for them, and you deserve them. At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, our work is done based on a contingency fee structure as determined by law and, we will not accept a fee unless you have received your benefits. When you call our office a member of our staff will connect with you the same day and will schedule a consultation at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How do I file for disability benefits?
  “Please contact us to discuss filing an application for your Social Security disability benefits.”
• I just received a denial notice. What should I do?
  It can be disheartening to receive a denial notice from Social Security. This happens to most people when they apply. It is important to file an appeal within the 60-day time limit, and to seek legal advice from a qualified and experienced attorney.
• Do I need a lawyer to represent me for disability?
  Claimants are not required by Social Security to have an attorney. Individuals can go through the process alone, but it is not advisable. An experienced attorney fighting for you can make all the difference.

• I requested a hearing months ago. Why is it taking so long?
  There is a backlog of claims at the hearing level all across the country. Average waiting times are around 16 months. Even though it may seem like nothing is happening, this waiting period is an important opportunity for you to improve your chances at hearing. There are things you could be doing right now that might help your case.
• How much do attorneys charge to represent me for my Social Security disability claim?
  Attorney fees are only paid after being approved by the Social Security Administration and only if you are approved for benefits. Fees are paid out of your retroactive benefits. Currently, federal law allows attorney fees of up to 25% of your retroactive benefits and a maximum of $6000, whichever is less.

Helpful Links:

Social Security Website: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp

National Institute of Health: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/