You are not required to have an attorney. However, government statistics show that claimants who are represented are statistically more likely to win their cases that those without representation. An attorney can help you with paperwork at all levels of review. He or she will make sure that everything is filed on time and at the right place. He or she will be familiar with what medical evidence is necessary to prove disability and will help to make sure all such evidence is in your file. He or she will prepare you for the hearing, write a brief for the Judge, and cross-examine expert witnesses. Your attorney will also explain the written decisions you get from Social Security and will work with you to make sure you are paid accurately if benefits are granted. At the Appeals Council and federal court levels, the attorney will file briefs setting forth the legal arguments as to why the Administrative Law Judge's decision was incorrect.
