Social Security Administrative Process
Understanding how we handle your Social Security Disability case from initial intake to successful resolution. Our proven process ensures thorough preparation and dedicated advocacy for every client.
How We Handle Your SSA Case
At Khattar Law, we follow a systematic approach to ensure every client receives the dedicated attention and professional representation they deserve. Our process is designed to maximize your chances of success while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Intake
We begin with a comprehensive review of your case, gathering all relevant information about your disability. This consultation is completely free and helps us understand your unique situation. During the intake process, we determine if you qualify for SSDI or SSI by reviewing your medical conditions, treatment history, and work history. If you qualify for SSDI and/or SSI, our office will submit an application for you.
What This Includes:
- Free case evaluation
- Review of medical conditions and treatment records
- Assessment of work history and earnings
- Determination of SSDI or SSI eligibility
- Application submission if qualified
Initial Claim
Your application is submitted at the initial stage and first goes to the district office to ensure there are no missing items such as forms, treatment information, or work history. Once complete, it goes to DDS (Disability Determination Services) for review. If your case is awarded at this stage, the claim is over and you will receive benefits. However, if it is denied, our office will appeal it to the reconsideration level.
What This Includes:
- Application review at district office
- Verification of all required documentation
- Submission to DDS for determination
- Case completion if approved
- Automatic appeal to reconsideration if denied
Reconsideration Level
If your initial claim is denied, we automatically appeal to the reconsideration level. This involves a complete review of your case by a different DDS examiner who was not involved in the initial decision. We gather additional evidence and documentation to strengthen your case during this stage.
What This Includes:
- Complete case review by a new DDS examiner
- Additional evidence gathering
- Medical records updates
- Strengthened case documentation
- Appeal to hearing level if denied
Reconsideration for Hearing Level
When the reconsideration claim is denied, we prepare your case for the hearing level. This involves comprehensive preparation including gathering all medical evidence, obtaining doctor statements, and preparing you for the hearing process before an Administrative Law Judge.
What This Includes:
- Comprehensive hearing preparation
- Medical evidence compilation
- Doctor statements coordination
- Client hearing preparation
- Strategic case presentation planning
Hearing Level
At the hearing level, you will appear before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who will review your case and make a decision. We provide full representation during this hearing, presenting your case, examining medical evidence, and advocating for your benefits. This is often where many cases are won.
What This Includes:
- Full representation before Administrative Law Judge
- Case presentation and advocacy
- Medical evidence examination
- Client testimony preparation
- Professional legal representation throughout hearing
Appeals Council Level
If the Administrative Law Judge denies your claim, we can appeal to the Appeals Council. The Appeals Council reviews the ALJ's decision for legal or policy errors. While they may deny review, remand the case back to the ALJ, or issue a favorable decision, we ensure your case is properly presented at this level.
What This Includes:
- Appeals Council review request
- Legal and policy error identification
- Case remand possibilities
- Favorable decision potential
- Thorough appellate brief preparation
Federal Court Review Level
As a final option, if the Appeals Council denies your case or refuses to review it, we can file a lawsuit in Federal District Court. This involves a comprehensive legal review of the Social Security Administration's decision and requires specialized federal court experience, which our firm provides.
What This Includes:
- Federal District Court filing
- Comprehensive legal review
- SSA decision challenge
- Specialized federal court representation
- Final avenue for case resolution
Ready to Get Started?
Don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us start working on your case immediately.