Social Security Lawyers
Expert legal representation at all stages of the Social Security claims process
We are a law firm that focuses on one thing—helping disabled people obtain Social Security and SSI benefits. We represent claimants at all stages from the initial application to federal court appeals. Joseph Duerst is an experienced attorney practicing with highly trained Case Administrators. All through the administrative claims stages, there is no fee unless you win benefits. We do not charge for consultations, and we do not bill by the hour unless we are billing your opponent in federal court. Our lawyers are experts recognized nationally. We are ready to help.
Contact Us
contact@accessdisability.com
(314) 450-4700
Mailing Address
10115 E Bell Rd
#107-610
Scottsdale, AZ 85260-2189
Four Reasons
Access
Clients can call us whenever they have a question or would like to talk about a case. We return messages promptly and do not put up communication barriers by screening calls or requiring appointments. If the attorney is not available, we make highly trained Case Administrators available to answer questions and solve problems as quickly as possible.
Affordable Fees
At administrative levels, we charge Social Security or SSI clients a contingent 25% attorney's fee. There is no retainer, no fee by the hour, and no fee if the client loses. In federal court, we can usually proceed with the “EAJA” statute to make the process even more affordable for the client.
Experience
The lawyers of Access Disability are some of the most experienced Social Security lawyers in Missouri. We have helped thousands of clients with Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security Income, Medicare, Medicaid and many other types of benefits. Our lawyers are nationally known experts, frequently training others and leading attorney groups.
Trust
When we take a case, we are willing to do what it takes to prove the claim. If evidence is needed, we get it ASAP instead of waiting and hoping that the Social Security Administration will do it. We have a reputation for speed, looking for ways to get an earlier hearing, avoiding evidence delays, and acting immediately. Mutual trust between attorney and client is essential to a successful presentation of a Social Security disability claim.
The Social Security Process
Here, Access Disability summarizes the process of applying for SSI or Social Security disability benefits. We explain each stage. Be forewarned: the process is not fast.
First Steps—Initial Application & Reconsideration
You can apply for benefits at any Social Security local office. To find out which office is nearest, call (800) 772-1213. Some claims can be filed online by visiting www.ssa.gov. During the COVID pandemic, start by calling. The initial application process usually takes 3 or 4 months. If denied the first time, you must repeat by going through “reconsideration”—another several months. There is a very low chance of success at these first steps, by they are required.
ALJ Hearing
If you are turned down twice (initially, and again on reconsideration), you must file a “Request for Hearing” within 60 days. This step is the longest, but often it is where there is a much greater chance of getting the claim approved. The hearing is before an Administrative Law Judge (“ALJ”)—who will spend hours reviewing the evidence, hearing your testimony, and generally giving your case much more attention. This step can take a year or more, but with our help we can often make the wait worth it. Don’t worry—we will prepare you to testify, make sure all the evidence gets to the judge, and do what it takes to present your case accurately and fully.
We can help
Please call us about your case. Our attorneys are ready, and our firm can help.