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What Qualities Should a Person Look for When Hiring a Disability Attorney?

When hiring a disability attorney — whether for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), long-term disability claims, or veterans’ benefits — focus on qualities that ensure expertise, reliability, and effective advocacy.

Choosing the right attorney for your case is a process which shouldn’t be discounted. You want an attorney who understands you and your case and switching attorneys mid-race can set the process back immensely.

Specialization and Experience in Disability Law

Look for an attorney who focuses primarily or exclusively on disability claims (e.g., SSDI/SSI or ERISA-governed insurance policies) and not an attorney who is a general practitioner. You want to hire a specialist.

Be sure to ask your potential attorney how many years they have worked in disability law. You can also ask how many cases they have handled which are similar to yours.

Strong Track Record and Success Rate

Don’t hesitate to ask your new potential attorney about their approval rates. Check their website and Google Reviews to get an idea about how satisfied previous clients may be. Be leery of any guarantees about being approved. No ethical lawyer can promise approval — seek honest assessments instead.

Communication is Key

Did your attorney get back with your right away? If so, this is a sign that they are deeply motivated and care about the outcome of their client’s cases.  You can pick up a great amount of information from your initial contact.

During your free initial consultation (typically 30-45 minutes), gauge if they listen attentively and make you feel respected. Ask if they plan to update you regularly and how often that may be. Will they send you an update every other day, every week, or bi-weekly? These are details you want to hammer out from the start.