Eugene Social Security Disability Claims

If you are suddenly unable to work and face the dilemma of applying for Social Security Disability, let the law firm of Shlesinger& deVillenueve guide you through the complicated maze of applying for your Social Security Disability benefits. We have over four decades of experience fighting for the rights of Oregonians and helping them win their cases! We handle almost a thousand Social Security Disability cases every year, and we understand how the Social Security system and administration work – inside and out!

Even if your case is medically obvious and you filed for Social Security Disability benefits immediately, actually receiving your benefits often takes an excruciatingly long time. The phrase, “all disability claims are rejected the first time you file,” is essentially true. This is because the Social Security Administration presumes that everyone should be able to do some kind of job, and there is a perpetual backlog of cases moving slowly through the system. Simply applying for benefits requires a considerable amount of data that must be gathered, documented, and verified before you are approved. Even with expert assistance, the process of applying for and then receiving your benefits is often a lengthy undertaking.

Shlesinger & deVilleneuve can provide you with invaluable help and assistance from the very beginning, shortly after you become disabled. We know how to gather and document the medical evidence that will prove your case and move it through the system more quickly. We have top-notch support staff to help our attorneys deal with the innumerable forms and paperwork that must be filed, so we make sure your case is prepared properly and done correctly. This alone often makes the difference between being approved or denied, and cuts down on the waiting period considerably. Our record is excellent, but if you are denied, we automatically take all steps necessary to file for reconsideration on your behalf. We will ensure that your case is given the kind of attention and care that will give you a far better chance of being approved the first time you apply!

Your Social Security Disability Benefits are meant to help you; they are your benefits, you paid for them, and you deserve them. At Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, we work on the contingency fee basis determined by law, and we will accept no fee until you receive your benefits. Call our offices; we will get back to you the same day to schedule your complimentary consultation, where we will explain our fee schedule and how we can work with you to make sure you are approved for your benefits – the first time!

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 nationwide. 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 of hearing. You could be doing things 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/