Burnett Evans Banks

Not being able to work can be a frustrating and confusing experience. With everything else going on in your life it can be nearly impossible to take on a big government agency to get the benefits you have earned. What you need is an attorney with the concern and ability to fight for you. If you have been denied Social Security disability benefits or have questions about applying contact Robert Clarke, our disability benefits practice chair.

You probably have many questions about the entire process and Robert is more than happy to meet with you for free to discuss your options.  Below are some commonly asked questions and answers about Social Security disability benefits.

What types of benefits are available?

- There are many disability benefit programs, private and public.  The most commonly used public programs are the Social Security Administration’s disability insurance benefit and supplemental security income benefit.  Veterans who have a service connected disability may also qualify for additional benefits from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.  If you think you may qualify for benefits or have questions, contact us today.

How do I know if I am disabled?

- Basically, you are disabled if you can not work.  Social Security has a very strict definition of disability though.  You must demonstrate that you cannot do the work you did before, that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition and that your disability has lasted or is excepted to last at least a year or result in death.  Understanding and presenting evidence on this strict legal standard is very difficult on your own.  This is why many people choose to have a lawyer represent them.

What can a lawyer do for me?

- A disability lawyer can be your point of contact with the Social Security Administration.  If your case requires a hearing, a lawyer will prepare you for the hearing, attend it with you, if appropriate object to improper questions, help you tell your side of things, cross-examine experts and talk to the judge.  Even if your case does not require a hearing a lawyer can make sure to gather all your medical records, help you obtain a report from your doctor telling the Social Security Administration you are disabled, attempt to reopen old cases, submit written argument to the judge, appeal the case if you loss and make sure you get paid the right benefits.  You are more likely to get benefits if you are represented by a lawyer than if you are not.

What does a disability lawyer cost?

- In cases where you have not been previously award benefits most disability lawyers do not charge anything unless you receive benefits.  Robert is only paid from back benefits and even then the attorney fee is capped at 25% of your back benefit up to a maximum number set by the Social Security Administration, currently $6,000.

When should I apply?

- If you think you might be disabled don’t wait, apply now.  If you need help or have questions about applying contact Robert today.

What if I have been denied, should I give up?

- No!  It is surprising to people but most people are denied at some point in applying for Social Security disability benefits.  Even if it has been sometime since you have been denied, Robert might be able to get your case reopened.  One thing that is universally required when applying for Social Security benefits is patience.  If you have been denied benefits you should contact Robert today.

What about VA benefits?

-If you were injured or became ill while performing military service you may be eligible for disability benefits from the VA. Robert is a VA accredited attorney and can help you get the benefits you have earned. You served your country and it is now time your country serve you. If you have been denied VA disability benefits contact