Working together with your Albuquerque disability attorney will help to move your case through the appeals process
In my 30+ years as an Albuquerque disability attorney, I have found that a collaborative approach works best. That is, the best results are achieved, in the most efficient manner, when my clients and I work together throughout the appeals process. Below, I will explain some of the ways I can improve your chances of success. For a short list of simple steps you can take to help me help you, read “Simple Things You Can Do To Help Your Case.”
What I can do for you
Focus your appeal case on the legal issues that matter to the Social Security decision-maker
At our first meeting, I will review your denial letter to determine the legal reason Social Security gave for denying your claim. Once this has been determined, I can develop a case theme that addresses the legal issues that are important to the Social Security Administration, and focus the argument in your case on those issues. For example, if your denial letter states that you are able to perform “lighter work” or “past relevant work,” we will talk about your job history and determine the easiest job you have held in the past. We will discuss your job duties, your limitations as a result of your impairment, and the legal definitions of “light” work and “sedentary” work. All of this information will help me develop a persuasive theme on which to focus your appeal.
Complete the evidentiary record
Your claim was denied because at some point in the evaluation process, proof of your disability failed. I will find the holes in the evidence and work to fill the gaps, so that the Social Security decision-maker will have all the information relevant to your claim. If, for example, the decision-maker did not consider some of your symptoms because they were determined to be inconsistent with your medical records, I will arrange for arrange for an evaluation by a specialist to ensure that your symptoms are adequately explained and documented in your records. If your ability to adapt to new work is at issue, I can arrange for an evaluation and report by a vocational specialist.
Prepare you to testify at your hearing
Your testimony at your disability hearing can be the difference between an award of benefits and another denial. I will make sure you are well prepared for this pivotal event. Well in advance of your hearing date, I will meet with you to review the hearing process; the types of questions you might be asked; and the type of information the judge needs to hear to award benefits (i.e., detailed testimony about your symptoms and your daily activities).
Advocate for your rights at the hearing
I will attend the hearing with you, to protect your rights and provide moral support. I will make an opening statement to introduce your case theme and evidence. I will monitor your testimony and the testimony of other witnesses. I will make a closing argument that explains how and why the law requires an award of benefits in your case.
Contact Albuquerque disability lawyer, Donald D. Vigil, for help with your appeal
You do not have to retain an Albuquerque disability lawyer to obtain Social Security disability benefits. However, even the Social Security Administration acknowledges that your chances of success are greater if you enlist the help of an experienced disability lawyer. I know disability law, and I have more than 30 years’ experience putting the law to work for my clients. If you would like my counsel, please tell me about your situation using the Free Claim Evaluation form on this page, or call or email me.
Donald D. Vigil
Albuquerque disability lawyer
100 Fourteenth St. S.W.
Albuquerque, NM 87102-2822
