What Is an Administrative Law Judge? Our Baltimore Social Security Law Firm Explains
If your request for Social Security disability (SSD) was denied after your initial application and first reconsideration, a Baltimore Social Security law firm may recommend that you attend a disability hearing. This second-level appeal takes place before an administrative law judge (ALJ). The ALJ is responsible for issuing an unbiased decision regarding your disability. This decision cannot be influenced by previous denials. Nationally, ALJs rule in favor of applicants more than 50 percent of the time, which means that this hearing is often your best chance for recovering disability benefits in the appeals system.
What to Expect at a Disability Hearing
The setting at a disability hearing isn’t as formal as a traditional courtroom, and the judge may not wear a judicial robe, but you are still expected to act politely and pay the same respect that you would to any court judge. During the hearing, the judge will be assessing the facts surrounding your disability. This is not an adversarial event. There won’t be a lawyer on the other side who is there to cross-examine you. Usually, the judge won’t cross-examine you either.
What You Can Do During the Hearing
Because applying for SSD is such a complex and tedious process, many people are frustrated by the time they schedule a hearing. Although your initial application and first appeal have been denied, it’s important that you remain calm and don’t direct your anger toward the ALJ. This is true even if you’ve experienced multiple setbacks and received a denial without a logical explanation. Judges aren’t responsible for denials or delays, and they are already familiar with the shortcomings of the Social Security system and appeals process. Explaining your problems with the system won’t help the judge form an opinion about your disability. Don’t ask the judge questions about your case or the Social Security system. Even if you want answers, avoid questions like “Why did I have to wait so long for a hearing?” or “Why was I denied?”
Questions You Can Ask
At certain times during your hearing, it’s helpful to ask for explanations. If you don’t understand a particular question or a legal term, ask the judge what he or she means. This shows a willingness to learn. Frequently, attorneys and ALJs complicate simple questions by using legal jargon. Don’t let this intimidate you. If you don’t understand something, just ask. The best thing you can do is talk to the judge in a frank, honest manner. You don’t need to use fancy medical terms or legalese. In fact, it’s better if you don’t. Talk to the judge in a familiar manner. Pretend you’re explaining your disability to an old friend. This is often the most effective way to present your case.
Contact a Baltimore Social Security Law Firm
If you’re preparing for a Social Security disability hearing, Disability Benefits Inc. can help you learn more about the process. Call 800-899-7040 to request a free consultation with an experienced Baltimore Social Security law firm.
