If you are unable to work in Gastonia because of a long-term disability or illness, you need an attorney who can evaluate your eligibility for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits in North Carolina. The application process is incredibly difficult, and many qualifying individuals are initially denied benefits. An experienced Gastonia Social Security Disability lawyer from Bridgman Gantt Law Offices can help you file a claim and fight to secure the benefits you deserve.
At Bridgman Gantt Law Offices, our trusted legal team shares decades of combined experience helping North Carolina residents secure Social Security Disability benefits. Our attorneys can assist those filing their initial claims as well as those who were denied benefits, working to fight for the benefits you need to live comfortably. We can gather medical records, testimony, and other key evidence to demonstrate how an illness or injury has impacted your ability to work and live.
SSD benefits provide financial support for disabled individuals across the country who are unable to return to work. These benefits can help qualifying individuals cover living expenses and medical needs. SSD benefits are not a form of welfare. Most workers pay into the entitlement program over the course of their lives, although only a small percentage of workers require payments from the program.
There are strict standards when it comes to qualifying for this federal program. The applicant must prove that they have a severe medical impairment that kept them from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages the program and reviews the medical records of applicants along with their work history when determining eligibility.
Many SSD applicants who have lived with a serious disability for over a year are surprised to learn that their initial application can be denied. Denied claims often occur due to missing medical evidence or application errors. The good news is that you have the right to appeal a rejected application.
The appeal process comes with its own complicated proceedings that can pose additional challenges to applicants. Strict filing deadlines apply throughout the process, and a second denial could require a hearing before an administrative judge. Given the challenges of applying for SSD benefits or appealing a rejected application, many disabled workers find that legal representation offers a more reliable path to securing SSD benefits in North Carolina.
Hiring a skilled Gastonia SSD lawyer can improve your chances of getting your claim approved, especially if your initial application was denied. The claims process is complex, requiring detailed medical records and clear proof of how your disability affects daily life. Many applicants struggle to present strong evidence, leading to delays or rejections.
An experienced lawyer ensures that Social Security administrators and judges receive a well-documented case that adequately demonstrates the impact of your disability. They can gather medical records, organize testimony from family, friends, or co-workers, and obtain vocational or psychological evaluations when necessary. Properly structuring an appeal strengthens the claim and helps avoid common mistakes.
While legal representation is not required, having a lawyer can make the process more efficient and increase the likelihood of approval. SSD attorneys work on contingency, meaning there is no cost unless benefits are awarded. A well-prepared claim with strong legal guidance can make all the difference.
A: Social Security disability lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis in North Carolina. Their fee is capped by federal law and comes from your back pay, not future benefits. If your SSD lawyer uses a contingency fee, they will only receive a payment if your SSD claim is successful. Additional costs for medical records or relevant testimony may apply. Reputable SSD lawyers disclose these costs early on.
A: In Gastonia, North Carolina, an experienced SSD lawyer can help strengthen your claim by gathering medical evidence, handling paperwork, and representing you in hearings. They understand how to present your case effectively and address potential issues before they cause delays. While no lawyer can guarantee approval, having legal representation can improve your chances, especially if your claim was previously denied.
A: The timeline of your case depends on factors like medical evidence, application accuracy, and whether an appeal is needed. Some SSD cases are approved within a few months, but many take over a year when delays or complications arise. A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you avoid mistakes that cause delays and ensure your claim moves through the process as efficiently as possible. Complex cases may take longer to resolve.
A: When looking for a strong disability lawyer in Gastonia, North Carolina, you should always search for a skilled lawyer who has a successful track record handling cases that are similar to yours. Read client reviews, ask about their approach, and ensure they provide clear communication. A good lawyer should be familiar with SSD laws and regulations and have comprehensive knowledge of fighting claim denials.
The legal team at Bridgman Gantt Law Offices has more than 60 years of combined experience. We focus on helping injured clients and individuals who are eligible for SSD benefits. Whether you are filing your first claim for SSD benefits or your initial one was denied, our experienced team can aid you in building a strong case that demonstrates why you deserve these benefits.
Contact our office today so we can explore your eligibility for SSD benefits. We can help you better understand how the application process works and protect your rights through every proceeding you go through. Don’t wait to learn more about your potential eligibility.
"*" indicates required fields