Group Photo of professionals at Law Offices Of Lawrence D. Rohlfing

Composing A Legal Strategy For All of Your Disability Needs

Legal Support For All Stages Of SSDI And SSI Claims

Qualifying for Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be a long and frustrating process. That is why it is so important to seek legal help. Our experienced attorneys can improve your chances. Our goal is to get you qualified for benefits as early as possible, but we have experience at all stages of the legal process.

The Law Offices of Lawrence D. Rohlfing, Inc. CPC helps people in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas secure their disability benefits. Call us at 562-868-5886 for a free consultation.

The Disability Claim Timeline

Every SSDI and SSI case is different. The following provides you with a general timeline of the different stages of the claim process, from internal consideration by the Social Security Administration through appeals to federal courts (if necessary).

Application Level

  • SSA staff reviews your claim
  • Up to nine months for determination
  • 60 days to file an appeal if desired

Reconsideration Level

  • SSA re-examines the claim and any new evidence
  • Up to nine months for redetermination
  • 60 days to file an appeal if desired

Hearing Level

  • A special judge hears the facts of your case
  • Approximately one year for a hearing date
  • 60 days to file an appeal if desired

Appeals Council Level

  • A panel of SSA judges examines the hearing decision
  • Up to two years for a decision or action
  • 60 days to file a civil action in Federal District Court

Federal District Court Level

  • The case is filed in District Court
  • Up to two years for judgment/decision
  • 60 days to file an appeal with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

Ninth Circuit Court Of Appeals level

  • Two to three years for a judgment/decision
  • Last forum of appeal for Social Security Disability cases except for rare cases, which may go the United States Supreme Court

Click here for more detailed information about each stage of the process.

Why Should I Hire An Attorney?

Many claimants are rejected at the initial application, and a high percentage of those people simply give up. But many of the people who “stick with it” are ultimately rewarded with benefits. Success or failure depends on many factors, such as the nature of your disability. However, hiring a lawyer greatly improves your chances of getting approved. In fact, the farther you get in the process, the more important it is to have experienced legal counsel on your side. The process is fact-specific and legally complex, and the burden of proof is on you to prove that you are not able to sustain any type of work.

The Law Offices of Lawrence D. Rohlfing, Inc. CPC has helped thousands of clients qualify for benefits. We can assist with preparing your initial application or reconsideration. We can prepare you for and represent you in hearings or appeals.

Contact our Santa Fe Springs law office to arrange a free consultation. We charge no fees unless we recover benefits for you. Call 562-868-5886 or contact us by email.