Skilled Legal Representation In Social Security And SSI Disability Appeals

Appealing Your Denied SSDI/SSI Claim

If your Social Security Disability (SSD) application has been rejected, you are in good company. It is very common for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to reject applications the first time around.

Do not let a rejection stop you from fighting for the benefits you need. If you are a disabled worker, it is essential to contact an experienced Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI/SSI) appeals attorney to help you communicate your case effectively.

Extensive Experience You Can Rely On

I am attorney Richard Gutstadt. My Oakland law firm focuses exclusively on helping disabled people appeal SSDI/SSI claim denials. As an SSDI/SSI appeal attorney with more than 40 years of experience, it is my goal to maximize your chance for a successful appeal and help you get the benefits you need promptly.

It is best to call me as soon as you can after you have received your initial rejection letter. Contact our office today at 510-992-6934.

The Four Options To Appeal

There are four levels to appeal a denied SSD claim.

  1. Reconsideration: After you receive your initial denial, within 65 days you may request a Reconsideration at the local office where your application was filed. You can handle this appeal yourself, or to get earlier, skilled advocacy, you can contact my office to file an appeal on your behalf.
  2. Administrative appeal: This is a formal, independent hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ). The best time to bring an SSDI/SSI appeal lawyer into your case is before you attend this hearing (although the earlier the better). Decisions made by an administrative law judge (ALJ) can help or hinder any later appeal.
  3. Social Security Appeals Council: This appeal takes place before the national appeals council in Washington, D.C.
  4. Federal court appeal: I do not take cases to federal court, but I can refer you to a lawyer whose legal focus is on federal appeals.

How To Prove Your Case

I understand the kind of medical and nonmedical evidence we will need to win your case, and how to make it clear that your disability fits the SSA criteria for a successful disability benefits claim.

At your initial interview, my legal team and I will work with you to collect the proof we need, including your:

  • Medical history
  • Past work
  • Education
  • Motivation to work
  • Attempts to work
  • Symptoms and effects of pain and medication

The administrative law judge will consider a variety of factors in making a decision, and it is essential to develop medically supported theories in support of your disability claim. We will prepare an effective strategy and develop realistic theories to help you secure your benefits.

Contact Me And Get Experienced Attorneys Working For You

I have helped many people obtain the SSDI/SSI benefits they needed, even after their claims were initially denied. For a free consultation about your case, contact us online now or call my Oakland office at 510-992-6934.

Client Letter

“I want you to know how very pleased I am with your representation, and with the one hundred percent successful result!

 

It is obvious to me that you are an expert in this field, and that you know how to present just the right amount of facts and argument so that the administrative law judge and the vocational expert remain attentive and, ultimately, agree with the case being made by you.”