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- 1. Know What the Judge Is Looking For
- 2. Build a Strong Medical Record
- 3. Use Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Forms to Your Advantage
- 4. Prepare for Tough Questions
- 5. Understand the Judge’s Style
- 6. Practice Telling Your Story
- 7. Take Advantage of Available Resources
- Putting It All Together: How to Approach Your Hearing
If you’ve been denied Social Security Disability benefits and have an upcoming hearing, you’re not alone. Many applicants only win benefits at the hearing stage — but preparation is key. Below are some of the best attorney-tested strategies for increasing your chances of success.
1. Know What the Judge Is Looking For
Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) are focused on one central question: Do your medical conditions prevent you from working on a full-time basis? Every piece of evidence, every testimony, and every doctor’s note should help answer that question. Attorneys familiar with Social Security hearings know how to present your story in a way that speaks directly to what the judge needs to decide.
2. Build a Strong Medical Record
The single most important factor in winning your case is medical evidence. Judges want to see consistent, well-documented treatment that supports your limitations. An attorney can help you:
- Track down missing records from doctors and specialists
- Highlight test results, imaging, or clinical notes that support your claim
- Ensure your treatment history shows ongoing attempts to get better
Without this foundation, even the strongest testimony may not be enough.
3. Use Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Forms to Your Advantage
A Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form completed by your doctor can be a game-changer. This form translates your medical conditions into real-world work limitations. For example, how long you can sit, stand, walk, lift, or concentrate. Attorneys often prepare forms that are specific to your condition and tailored to SSA criteria.
4. Prepare for Tough Questions
Judges and vocational experts may ask difficult questions about your daily life or ability to perform certain tasks. Examples include:
- “How long can you sit before needing to stand?”
- “Do you prepare your own meals?”
- “Why did you stop working when you did?”
An attorney helps you anticipate these questions and answer them honestly, without downplaying your limitations or overstating your abilities.
RELATED POST: What Happens at a Social Security Disability Hearing?
5. Understand the Judge’s Style
Every ALJ runs their hearings a little differently. Some are more formal, while others are conversational. Experienced disability attorneys often know the tendencies of specific judges. They can tell you how they approach cases, what evidence they value most, and what questions they usually ask. This insight can help you feel more prepared and less surprised on the day of your hearing.
6. Practice Telling Your Story
Your testimony is your chance to explain how your conditions affect your daily life. Keep your answers short, specific, and honest. Instead of saying “I can’t walk very far,” try:
- “I can walk about 50 feet before I need to sit down and catch my breath.”
Concrete examples carry more weight than general statements. Attorneys often coach clients ahead of time so their story comes across clearly and consistently.
7. Take Advantage of Available Resources
You don’t have to prepare for your hearing alone. There are free resources online that can help you understand what to expect. For example, the Ortiz Law Firm has a YouTube playlist dedicated to Social Security Disability hearing preparation, where you can learn more about how hearings work and what to expect.
For clients of the Ortiz Law Firm, we also provide free access to the Disability Academy, an online program designed to prepare you for every stage of the Social Security Disability process. Tools like these can give you confidence and clarity before you step into the hearing room.
Putting It All Together: How to Approach Your Hearing
Winning a Social Security Disability hearing takes more than just showing up. It takes preparation, strong evidence, and the ability to present your case effectively. You can go through the process on your own, but many claimants find that working with an experienced attorney gives them the best chance of success.
If your disability claim has been denied and you want help preparing for your hearing, contact the Ortiz Law Firm. Call (888) 321-8131 to schedule a free case evaluation today.
