Preparing for a Social Security Disability hearing in Texas can be a daunting task. Many claimants feel anxious about preparing for their Social Security Disability hearing. Below are answers to some commonly asked questions regarding the hearing.
Who Will Be At My Hearing?
Your hearing is before an administrative law judge who only hears Social Security cases. This is a hearing, not a trial. It is not like what you may have seen on television. The only people in attendance will be your attorney, the judge, the judge’s hearing assistant, any necessary experts and you.
What Is A Medical And Vocational Expert?
The medical expert reviews your medical records in your case and provides testimony on your limitations. The vocational expert (job expert) testifies on how the workforce will accommodate or deal with different types of limitations.
What Does The Hearing Room Look Like?
The hearing is in a room with a long table. You will sit at one end, and the judge sits at the other end. Your attorney will sit next to you. Any other experts or hearing assistants will sit at the table as well.
What Questions Will I Be Asked?
The judge will begin by asking you to raise your right hand and swear to tell the truth. The judge will ask you questions that are designed to clarify the extent of your medical problems and work limitations. Since the hearing typically only lasts one hour, you and your attorney should submit medical records and other arguments prior to the hearing to maximize your chance of having a persuasive impact on the case.
How Should I Testify?
Tell the truth; do not exaggerate or minimize your problems. When the judge asks questions about your medical problems, explain your symptoms or limitations as if you are speaking to your doctor for the first time. Help the judge know where your symptoms are and how bad the symptoms can get. The judge also wants to know how these medical problems limit your ability to work and to take care of yourself.
When The Judge Asks About My Activities Of Daily Living, What Should I Explain?
If the judge asks you about your typical daily routine, explain, as much as you can, how your life has changed. For example, if the judge asks if you clean your home, do not just say yes. Explain how you clean, what assistance you get from others, what breaks you take, what kind of work you avoid, etc.
What Should I Do If I Did Not Understand The Question Or Do Not Know The Answer?
Don’t answer. Just explain to the judge that you did not understand or do not know the answer.
What Is Packard Law Firm’s Single Most Important Piece Of Advice About Preparing For My Social Security Hearing?
The judge’s No. 1 one fear is giving Social Security benefits to someone who is not truly disabled. If you’re reading this, then the odds are you (or someone you know) are disabled from full-time employment.
We strongly believe that the truth is the most persuasive thing you can share. Let the truth sell itself. Look at the judge straight in the eye, and try to focus on helping him or her understand what your medical problems and limitations are, not on memorizing and saying, “the right answer.”
Above all, be genuine and sincere; be yourself.
To speak with one of our lawyers about your hearing, contact us today. Call (210) 972-8918 to schedule your free consultation.
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