Claimants who are unrepresented for Social Security claims may inadvertently send 3 messages to the judge that can hurt the case.
1. You may send the message that your claim is so weak that you couldn't find an attorney-advocate to represent you. Over 90 percent of claimants are represented. Judges aren't accustomed to dealing with "unrepped" claimants.
2. The judge may not expect you to show up for your hearing if you are unrepped. A high percentage of claimants who don't have representatives don't bother to show up for their hearings. Claimants with representation nearly always show up. This places a negative stigma on unrepped claimants.
3. Your hearing will probably be delayed for a few months if you show up unrepresented. The judge will offer to delay the hearing to provide time for you to find counsel. If you refuse, you will be asked to sign a waiver stating that you were offered a delay to find an attorney and you declined to do so. Judges really don't like to deal with unrepresented claimants. Once your hearing has been postponed, it can take 3 to 6 months to get back on the docket again.
There are many fine claimant's representatives in North Alabama who would like to help you with your Social Security hearing. Most of them will provide a free consultation and case evaluation with no obligation. You will only pay a fee if your case is successful and results in a back pay award. (And who wouldn't be glad to pay a small legal fee under those conditions)?
HELPING HONEST, HARD WORKING PEOPLE GET THE DISABILITY BENEFITS THEY DESERVE. WE WORK TO GET YOU MAXIMUM BENEFITS AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. Phone (256) 799-0297.
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