Why You Might Need a Disability Lawyer

While it’s possible to file a claim on your own, hiring a disability attorney offers several advantages:

• Increases your approval odds, especially on appeal
• Helps you gather medical evidence and complete paperwork correctly
• Meets deadlines and avoids costly mistakes
• Represents you at hearings and presents your case to a judge
• No upfront costs—lawyers are only paid if you win

Where to Start Your Search

Use Online Legal Directories

Websites like:

• NOSSCR.org – National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives
• Avvo.com – Lawyer reviews and credentials
• Justia.com – Directory with filters for practice area and location

You can search for attorneys specifically handling Social Security Disability in Louisiana.

Ask for Referrals

Talk to:

• Friends or family who’ve gone through the process
• Local disability advocacy groups
• Medical providers who work with patients on disability

Referrals can give you insight into how effective and approachable a lawyer is.

Check With the Louisiana State Bar

Visit www.lsba.org to verify a lawyer’s credentials and check for any disciplinary history.

Questions to Ask a Disability Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, ask:

• How many disability cases have you handled?
• Do you have experience with Louisiana SSA offices and local judges?
• How do you communicate during the process?
• What is your success rate?
• What fees do you charge if I win?

Disability lawyers typically work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win. The SSA limits fees to 25% of your back pay, up to a maximum (currently $7,200 as of 2024).

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Upfront fees (you should never have to pay before you win)
• Poor communication or hard-to-reach staff
• Lack of experience in disability law
• Vague answers to your questions

Choose someone you trust who has proven experience with SSA disability claims in Louisiana.