Applying for and getting the Social Security disability benefits you deserve can seem at times like a full time job. The government is reluctant to hand out a single penny to anyone, no matter how fairly they’ve earned it. This is why it is so important to have an experienced Oak Lawn disability law attorney helping you out. Here are some tips on how to find a good disability attorney or practice.
Check the ISBA
ISBA stands for the Illinois State Bar Association. Their website has a handy “Find a Lawyer” feature for the general public. Click on their online directory to get a list of disability lawyers in your area. If time is short, you can talk to a lawyer for a half hour. However, that service costs $25. Lawyers that are members of the ISBA need to get liability insurance and keep up a high level of professional ethics in order to keep in the ISBA’s good graces.
Don’t Choose Entirely By Price
You are best talking to at least three disability lawyers before hiring one. This will give you at least three estimates to compare. Don’t just hire the least expensive one -; or the most expensive one, unless you feel really good about that particular lawyer. Take into consideration many other factors when choosing a disability lawyer.
Go to Initial Consultation
Although in some cases you can have an initial consultation with a lawyer over the phone, it is best to meet the lawyer face to face. You can also bring medical records, copies of X-rays or any other pertinent paperwork about your case for the lawyer to look at. This will help the lawyer determine how to go about handling your case. Some lawyers offer free consultations but some do not. Make sure you get that clear before setting up an appointment.
Clear Communicator
Lawyers and legal staff should be polite and professional. They should not keep you waiting for hours on end and should not talk down to you. Lawyers should listen to you and take the time to answer whatever questions you have. They should not talk in “legalese” but talk in everyday language.
