Social Security Disability Lawyer in Cambridge, MA

Once eligibility is confirmed, your lawyer will help you complete the application. They’ll ensure all necessary forms are filled out accurately and gather documents, such as medical records, employment history, and statements from healthcare providers, to strengthen your claim.

After submission, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your application. This process typically takes several months. During this time, your lawyer will monitor your case and keep you informed of any updates or additional requests from the SSA.

If your initial application is denied—a common outcome—your lawyer will review the SSA’s decision and identify any weaknesses in your claim. They’ll then prepare for the next step: filing a request for reconsideration.

Your lawyer will submit additional evidence and address any issues raised in the initial denial. The SSA will re-evaluate your claim, but this step often results in another denial.

If your claim is denied again, your lawyer will request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. They’ll prepare you for the hearing, present your case, and question witnesses (if applicable). This stage offers a higher chance of approval, as your lawyer can make a more personalized argument.

If the ALJ denies your claim, your attorney can request a review by the Appeals Council. They’ll argue that the judge’s decision contained errors and provide additional evidence if necessary.

As a last resort, your lawyer may file a lawsuit in federal court if the Appeals Council upholds the denial. This step involves more complex legal proceedings, but your attorney will handle everything, from drafting legal briefs to arguing your case in court.

While it’s not mandatory to have an attorney, working with one can significantly improve your chances of approval. Our attorneys are familiar with the SSA’s strict guidelines and can help you avoid errors, gather the necessary evidence, and represent you in hearings. Studies show that applicants with legal representation are more likely to win their cases.

The timeline varies depending on the stage of your application. Initial claims can take 3–5 months for a decision, while appeals can take longer, especially if a hearing is involved. Working with a lawyer can help streamline the process by ensuring all documents are submitted correctly and on time.

Your benefits will continue as long as your condition prevents you from working. The SSA periodically reviews cases to determine ongoing eligibility. Benefits may also end if you return to work or reach full retirement age, at which point SSDI converts to Social Security retirement benefits.

SSDI back pay is calculated from your application date and may include retroactive benefits for up to 12 months prior, depending on when your disability began. The exact amount varies based on your earnings record and how long your application process took.

The 5-year rule refers to the requirement that you must have worked and paid into Social Security for at least 5 out of the last 10 years before becoming disabled to qualify for SSDI. This ensures that applicants have a sufficient recent work history.

Commonly approved disabling conditions include:

• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Spinal injuries, arthritis, and other severe back conditions.
• Mental Disorders: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Heart disease and chronic heart failure.
• Respiratory Disorders: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
• Cancer: Certain types of cancer may qualify, depending on severity and stage.

The SSA limits how much a disability lawyer can charge. Typically, it’s 25% of your back pay or a maximum of $7,200, whichever is less. This ensures you receive the majority of your benefits while still getting quality legal representation.

Yes, but there are limits. You can participate in a Trial Work Period (TWP), allowing you to test your ability to work for up to 9 months without losing benefits. However, if your earnings exceed the SGA limit, your benefits may be reduced or stopped.

Yes, family members may be eligible for benefits based on your work record. This includes your spouse, children under 18 years old, or older if they are disabled, and even divorced spouses in some cases.

During the hearing, an ALJ reviews your case. Your lawyer will present evidence, question witnesses (if applicable), and argue why you qualify for benefits. The ALJ may also ask questions about your condition and work history before making a decision.