Our Blog

Q. Why won’t SS pay for my disability without an ALJ Hearing?

A very small number of applicants are awarded benefits in North Carolina before the ALJ hearing. Social Security decisions and opinions prior to the ALJ hearing are generally made by…

Q. Should I try to work if I have applied for Social Security?

Yes. While you cannot be eligible for Social Security benefits while you are working full time, the law does permit you to make “work attempts” for periods of time without…

Q. What witnesses or evidence will I need at the hearing?

Since most of the issues for hearing involve medical questions, medical reports from your treating doctors are critical. Doctors are not asked to attend SS hearings. ALJs will not decide…

Q. What if I am getting Workers’ Compensation benefits?

SS law requires that all other benefits you receive be accounted for. This accounting normally means that SS benefits are offset or reduced by the other benefits you receive. While…

Q. What if my disability is caused by alcohol or drugs?

Congress has passed legislation that severely limits the receipt of SS benefits if your substance abuse problems contribute to your disability. While the current law is very unfavorable to these…

Q. How much will a lawyer cost me?

The ALJ must approve any fee charged by a lawyer. Lawyers will take Social Security cases on a contingency or percentage (%) basis. The standard percentage is twenty-five percent (25%)…

Q. How do I select a social security lawyer?

Social Security law changes regularly with new Congressional legislation and Court decisions. You should select a lawyer who regularly practices in SS court. The lawyer should be experienced, knowledgeable and…

Workers Compensation Overview

How do I handle myself at the scene?

You must stop and help anyone who is injured at the scene. Take precautions to make sure other cars are warned of the wreck. North Carolina Law requires you to…

Should I go to the hospital if I don’t have pain?

Most health care providers recommend that you go to the Emergency Room to make sure you don’t have hidden or delayed injuries. Even if you don’t go to the Emergency…

How long do I have to bring my claim?

North Carolina law generally gives you three (3) years to file a lawsuit for personal injury. Wrongful death claims usually have a two (2) year time limit. North Carolina law…

How can I pay my bills while I am out of work?

You should consider all possible sources of insurance such as health and disability. Depending on your condition, you may become eligible for Med Pay, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid or Worker’s…