Successfully going through your Social Security Disability hearing is an important step in being granted disability. There are a few things you should know before your hearing so that your hearing is productive and stress-free for you.
Take the time to discuss your hearing with your attorney ahead of time. You should know that the following are five things you definitely don't want to do at your Social Security Disability hearing so that you don't decrease your chances of winning your case.
Go without a lawyer
Don't make the mistake of trying to represent yourself in your Social Security Disability case. The process of filing and defending a Social Security claim is time-consuming and complicated.
By putting your case in the hands of an experienced lawyer, you maximize your chances of winning and allow yourself to concentrate on other important aspects of your personal and professional life.
Be unprepared
There are numerous things you can and should do to prepare for your hearing. You should have your attorney go over any questions with you that are likely to come up during your hearing. This way, you won't be caught off guard by questions and can formulate your responses ahead of time.
Answer questions in a vague or imprecise way
When you answer the judge's questions, it's important for you to be as detailed and factual as possible. If you are vague in your answers or give inaccurate information, you could lose credibility in the eyes of the judge.
Know all the facts about your case well before you go in for your hearing
Exaggerate
Any exaggeration on your part is going to make your case look bad and could diminish your chances of winning. Stick to the facts and don't think that the judge will sympathize with you more if you go on excessively about your injuries.
Provide information that you're not required to disclose
You can compromise your case by providing too much information. It's important that you're honest, but you only need to answer the questions. Providing information about things like relatives who are on disability or past problems you've had with drugs or alcohol could compromise your case.
Speak with a lawyer from a Social Security law firm for more information on what to do at a Social Security Disability hearing. If you avoid these five situations, you will have a better chance of having a productive hearing.
Share