If you find you need representation for a disability hearing with the Social Security Administration, you will need either a Disability Lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK or a non-attorney advocate. No matter which you choose, you only pay if your claim is successful, and the Social Security Administration pays the Disability Lawyer in Oklahoma City OK or the advocate, using back payment benefits to do so. What are the similarities between the two professionals and what are the differences?
An attorney is required to have a juris doctorate degree in addition to their bachelor’s degree and must pass a bar exam before being admitted to their state bar. An advocate, in contrast, may have either a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in training and work experience. In addition, they must pass a criminal background check, pass a written exam administered by the Social Security Administration, obtain professional liability insurance and take continuing education classes.
Many choose to hire an attorney as they must follow conduct rules established by their profession and are ethically obligated to adequately represent their clients. Advocates aren’t held to these same standards. Attorneys cannot disclose anything you tell them due to attorney-client privilege. Furthermore, attorneys undergo years of legal training so they may be able to spot problems and craft a defense to address these issues and increase your chances of getting benefits. The attorney can appeal a claim to a federal district court, if you are denied benefits, which an advocate cannot do, and you have recourse if you feel the attorney did not properly represent you, by filing a complaint with the state grievance commission. This option is not available for non-attorney advocates. An advocate, on the other hand, focuses solely on disability cases so their knowledge base is more focused.
As you go to choose between an advocate and a disability attorney, you’ll want to consider the success rate of the person you are consulting with. Ask how many claims end up going to a hearing and how many cases have been won at this level. It is important to get both figures as attorneys typically only take on those cases they feel they can win at a hearing. This may skew the results so keep this in mind when making your decision as your success or failure at the hearing can determine the course of your future.
