How to Choose the Best Social Security Disability Lawyer

Choosing the right Social Security Disability (SSD) lawyer can make a big difference in how smoothly your case moves forward—and whether you’re ultimately approved for benefits. Here’s a simple guide to help you find the best lawyer for your needs.

1. Look for Experience with Social Security Disability Claims

Not all lawyers handle SSD cases, and not all who do are deeply familiar with the process. Look for someone who focuses specifically on Social Security Disability law, has handled many cases similar to yours, and understands the nuances of both SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income).

Bonus Advantage: Some claimants also have a long-term disability (LTD) claim through a private or employer-sponsored policy. Working with a law firm that handles both Social Security Disability and LTD claims—like Ortiz Law Firm—ensures that your cases are coordinated, your evidence is consistent, and your benefits are maximized across both systems. This comprehensive approach helps avoid conflicts between the two types of claims and gives you one knowledgeable team managing all aspects of your disability benefits.

2. Check Their Track Record

While no lawyer can guarantee results, a good attorney should be able to show a history of successful disability claims. Experience at disability hearings and positive feedback from former clients are also good indicators of competence and reliability.

CASE STUDY: How Experience Won a Social Security Disability Hearing

3. Understand How Fees Work

SSD lawyers usually work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win. Their fees are typically capped by law—currently, the maximum is 25% of your back pay, up to $9,200. Make sure any agreement you sign clearly explains the fee structure.

4. Consider Communication and Support

You want a lawyer who explains things clearly and listens to your concerns. Consistent communication, regular updates on your case, and a supportive team make the process far less stressful.

5. Ask About Case Management

Some lawyers personally handle all aspects of your case; others delegate much of the work to paralegals. Ask who will prepare your paperwork, who will attend your hearing, and how they prepare clients for disability hearings.

At Ortiz Law Firm, We’re Different:

Many attorneys are not heavily involved at the early stages of a claim—but we are. Every client at Ortiz Law Firm receives access to The Disability Academy, an online library of videos, forms, and guides that explains each stage of the Social Security Disability process.

It includes:

• Step-by-step guidance on completing SSA forms and responding to questionnaires
• Examples of well-filled-out forms
• Custom (not generic) forms for your doctors that highlight your specific work-related limitations

We believe it’s in your best interest to involve an attorney early. If your claim is approved early, your backpay—and therefore your fee—is likely to be smaller. More importantly, early preparation helps you build a strong, well-documented claim before problems arise.

6. Understand How They Prepare You for the Hearing

Preparing for your Social Security Disability hearing is one of the most important steps in the entire process. A strong hearing presentation can make the difference between an approval and a denial. Your attorney should help you understand what to expect, what questions you’ll be asked, and how to clearly explain your symptoms, limitations, and daily challenges in a way that aligns with the medical and vocational evidence in your file.

At Ortiz Law Firm, we take hearing preparation seriously. We review your file in detail, anticipate the questions the Administrative Law Judge is likely to ask, and help you practice your answers so you can testify confidently. We make sure you know how to describe your condition accurately without minimizing your struggles or overstating your abilities.

What truly sets us apart is The Disability Academy, our exclusive online resource library available to every client. The Academy walks you step-by-step through the hearing process with:

• Examples of effective testimony from real hearing scenarios
• Sample questions judges often ask—and tips on how to respond
• Guidance on what to expect during the hearing itself
• Videos explaining how to avoid common mistakes that can undermine credibility

Most attorneys do not provide this level of preparation or educational support. We believe that when clients understand the process and know exactly what to expect, they present stronger, more convincing testimony—and that can make all the difference in the outcome of their case.

7. Free Case Evaluation? Take Advantage

Most SSD lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Use that time to ask questions, learn about their approach, and decide whether you feel comfortable moving forward with them.

Ortiz Law Firm Can Help with Your Social Security Disability Claim

If your Social Security Disability claim has been denied—or if you’re just getting started and want to build the strongest possible case—the Ortiz Law Firm can help. We represent clients nationwide for both Social Security Disability and long-term disability insurance claims.

Call (888) 321-8131 for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help you move your claim forward.