When asking around about your Social Security disability claim, you may get a lot of various advice. Some swear that an advocate is a better and more cost efficient choice than hiring an attorney. An advocate is a non-attorney representative who assists individuals with their Social Security disability claims. There are countless differences between the two.
In most cases, it is best to hire a Los Angeles Social Security lawyer rather than to rely on an advocate. The qualifications of an attorney speak volumes. Advocates are paid by the Social Security Administration and there are specific criteria that they must meet. Social Security advocates must have a college degree or equivalent, must pass a criminal background check, maintain liability insurance, pass a test about Social Security rules and regulations, and complete continuing education classes.
It is obvious from that, attorney’s require much more training, such as a four-year degree, graduate from law school, pass a state bar exam, be a member in good standing of a state bar association, and complete hours of continuing legal education. Lawyers are also bound by the rules of ethics and professional conduct. Retaining a Los Angeles Social Security lawyer also ensures that you are protected by the attorney-client privilege.
A disability advocate cannot provide the same services to you that a disability attorney can do. Disability attorneys are generally more proficient at questioning vocational and medical experts than non-attorney advocates. They know how to properly cross examine witnesses and pick apart testimony weaknesses.
In the event that your case is denied at the hearing level, an attorney will have to appeal your case to federal district court. If you don’t already have an attorney, it may not be that easy to get one at that point. Many lawyers don’t like to appeal a case to federal court if they haven’t handled the hearing or Appeals Council stages.
Call the Law Firm of Tony Adderley. Mr. Adderley is a Los Angeles Social Security lawyer with years of successful experience. Allow him to fight on your behalf and to be part of.