Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this going to take?
The average processing times that we typically see: 8 to 12 months for SSA/DDS to process the initial application filed online; 6 to 8 months to process the first appeal – the “Request For Reconsideration”; and 6 to 8 months to get a hearing decision from the Hollywood – Fort Lauderdale hearing office and the Miami hearing office.
We will do all that we can to push your case ahead as hard and as fast as we can. We work hard to see that your paperwork is returned to SSA as soon as humanly possible, and your appeals are filed immediately upon receipt of a denial of benefits. However, there are very few instances where we can have the judge’s office “expedite” your appeal, or move your case ahead to the front of the line. A well developed medical record and supporting opinions from treating physicians can certainly help to move your case along faster in the system. However, beware of attorneys or “disability advocates” who promise that they can get you a hearing date or disability decision faster. We are all dealing with the same government agency and the same hearing offices. The average processing times are published by SSA because those processing times hold true for all cases, and not just a select unfortunate few. I can not, and will not ever promise you something that is outside of my ability to provide. What I will promise you is that we will diligently monitor your file to ensure that your case does not “fall through the cracks”, the medical evidence is fully developed, and you are prepared to provide the best testimony possible when you sit before the judge and have to answer questions under oath.
Remember, we are dealing with a government agency that is mired in inefficient bureaucracy. SSA obviously does not warrant a reputation for their speedy disposition of cases. With the aging of the “BabyBoomers”, SSA has been inundated with new applications for benefits and there are literally millions of claims pending. That, complicated with less money allocated to SSA for personnel and resources, and events like “government shutdowns”, the backlog of cases at hearing offices around the country is unworkable.
What about expenses? Do I have to pay an “expense deposit"?

No. If I decide to undertake representation in your case, I do not require an expense deposit. I will advance reasonable case costs, such as medical records, postage, and copy fees. If we are successful, you will be asked to reimburse these costs after you receive your retroactive benefits. If we are not successful, you will not be asked to reimburse any costs, and you will not owe us anything.

Our initial consultation to determine your eligibility for benefits is free. If you are not currently receiving benefits, and you hire us to appeal a denial of benefits from SSA, we work on a “contingency fee” basis, meaning our fee is contingent upon a successful award of benefits to you. In that case, if we are successful in proving that you are disabled, SSA has to back up and pay you for all the months that we can show you have been wrongfully denied. At the end of the case, you would be entitled to a retroactive benefits payment, or “back pay”, and my fee is a one time fee of 25% of your retroactive benefits. If we are not successful in winning your case, then 25% of $0 is $0, and we will not charge you a dime for our services. Attorney fees in SSDI/SSI cases are established by federal statute and are authorized by SSA.

I think you should think about it, very carefully. I think you should consider how you are going to survive throughout the lengthy appeals process, and I think you should look yourself in the mirror and decide whether or not you can work. Since we pride ourselves in representing “disabled workers”, we also recognize that this may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever have to make. Discuss all of this with your spouse, your friends and family. Remember, the issue here is not whether or not any one will hire you, the issue is whether or not you can work due to a medical condition, or a combination of medical impairments. If you have struggled with this decision, but finally admitted to yourself that you are no longer able to work, DO NOT WAIT to file your application for disability benefits. The faster you get the process started, the faster you will have this process completed. Most importantly remember, if you have already had an application or appeal for benefits denied, you only have 60 days to appeal that denial of benefits, and there is no time to waste. SSA can be very strict with their appeal deadlines, and if you miss the appeal date you will probably have to start all over again and file a new application.
WHO WE HELP

Do you qualify?

DWB LAW, LLC focuses on SSDI/SSI disability applications and appeals for people who can’t work due to a serious medical condition. The practice screens cases carefully and concentrates on claims with a strong chance of success under Social Security’s rules.

You may be a fit if you:

  • Stopped working because of a medical condition, or you’re about to resign for medical reasons

  • Need help with a denied application or appeal

  • Live in South Florida, including the Miami and Fort Lauderdale hearing office areas

"We strengthen your appeal with clear documentation and focused preparation so your voice is heard."

Atty. David W. Batchelder
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