Attending any kind of legal proceeding can be nerve wracking. And since you probably haven’t seen a lot of Social Security hearings on TV dramas, you may not know what to expect.

There will be four or five people at an SSD hearing. Let’s walk through each of them and what you can expect from each.

1. You

While it may be nerve wracking, you may also feel excited. These are all normal feelings. Remember no one at an SSD hearing is there to oppose you. Be prepared to answer questions from the judge about your medical conditions and the limitations those conditions create.

2. Your Attorney

You should have worked with your attorney leading up to the hearing. After the judge asks you questions, your attorney may ask any follow up questions, and then speak on your behalf. You should discuss with your attorney before the hearing what questions if any they are planning to ask you. If you hire a local attorney, they will likely know each of the people in the room personally.

3. Vocational Expert

The judge will ask the vocational expert questions about how your medical condition will affect your ability to work both in your past jobs, and in any other jobs in the US economy. Without this evidence, it is very difficult to win a case. Your attorney may also ask the vocational expert additional questions to bolster your case.

4. Medical Expert

A medical expert may be present at the request of the judge, but is not always. The medical expert will answer questions the judge has about the medical records that were presented to him or her. These are usually doctors who are not there to discredit your disability but to help the judge understand it. As always when the judge is finished asking them questions, your attorney will have the opportunity.

5. Judge

The entire SSD hearing revolves around the judge. Each SSD judge will have different personalities, tendencies, and unique interests. Your attorney will be able to help you understand the judge before the hearing. The judge can then issue your ruling in one of two ways. Most of the time a ruling arrives in the mail a few weeks after the hearing. Other times the judge will offer a “bench ruling” at the end of your hearing.

Are You Prepared For Your Disability Hearing?

If you have an SSD case, the best way to prepare is to consult with an attorney. The Packard Law Firm is committed to helping individuals who have SSD cases make the best decision for them and their families. Reach out to us today.

Related Disability Information:

  • What To Do If Your Case Is Denied
  • 10 Mistakes To Avoid When FIling For Disability
  • Tips For Filing A Convincing Application