Fort Lauderdale Disability Appeals Lawyer: Get Help After a Denial

If your Social Security Disability claim has been denied in Fort Lauderdale, you’re not alone. In Florida, over 60% of initial applications for SSDI and SSI are rejected—often for technicalities like missing paperwork or insufficient medical evidence (SSA.gov). But a denial doesn’t have to be the end. With legal help, many applicants succeed during the appeals process.

Why Disability Claims Are Denied

Many claims are denied not because the applicant isn’t disabled—but because of preventable issues like:

• Incomplete forms or missed deadlines

• Missing or outdated medical records

• Income that exceeds SSA’s limits

• SSA believing your condition is not severe or long-term

• Failing to follow prescribed treatment or therapy

According to the Disability Benefits Center, technical denials account for about 20% of all rejected claims.

What the Appeals Process Looks Like

You have 60 days from the date of your denial to begin the appeals process. The four stages include:

1. Reconsideration – A new review of your original application

2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) – Where you can present evidence

3. Appeals Council Review – A further review if the judge denies your claim

4. Federal Court Review – A lawsuit in federal court as a last resort

Most favorable decisions occur at the ALJ hearing level, especially when applicants are represented by lawyers (NOSSCR).

How a Disability Appeals Lawyer Can Help

A skilled Fort Lauderdale disability appeals lawyer can:

• Identify the exact reason for your denial

• Collect medical records and supporting documents

• Prepare you for hearings and cross-examine witnesses

• Handle SSA paperwork and represent you at each appeals stage

• Improve your overall chance of success

An experienced attorney knows how to build the strongest case possible under SSA rules.

When to Call a Disability Appeals Lawyer

You should contact a lawyer if:

• You just received a denial letter from SSA

• You’re confused or overwhelmed by SSA forms

• Your medical condition has worsened

• You’re worried about making a mistake in your appeal

• You’ve missed a deadline or need help getting an extension

The earlier you reach out, the stronger your appeal can be.

Why Local Experience Matters in Fort Lauderdale

• Familiarity with SSA hearing offices and judges in Broward County

• Connections with local healthcare providers for medical documentation

• Understanding Florida’s disability trends and approval rates

• Faster, more responsive in-person support when needed

Local representation adds value when every detail counts.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

When your disability claim is denied, Louis Law Group offers trusted support through every step of the appeals process. Our legal team helps with:

• Reviewing your denial and identifying key errors

• Gathering strong medical evidence and expert statements

• Preparing your case for hearings and representing you in front of judges

• Handling all SSA correspondence and documentation

We know how to fight for the benefits you deserve. Explore more resources on our Disability Claims Help Center.

FAQs About Disability Appeals in Fort Lauderdale

Q: How long does the disability appeals process take in Fort Lauderdale?

Reconsideration takes about 2–3 months. If you request a hearing, it may take up to 12–18 months due to SSA backlogs.

Q: Can I apply again instead of appealing?

Yes, but it’s usually better to appeal. Reapplying starts your case over, which can delay benefits and reduce back pay.

Q: Is it worth hiring a disability appeals lawyer?

Yes. Applicants with legal representation are more likely to win at the hearing level (NOSSCR).

Q: What if I miss the 60-day appeal deadline?

You may still appeal if you have a valid reason, but time is limited. Contact an attorney immediately.

Q: How do disability lawyers get paid?

They work on contingency. If you win, SSA pays your lawyer up to 25% of your back pay (capped at $7,200) (SSA.gov).

Conclusion

A denied disability claim can feel overwhelming—but with the right legal guidance, you can turn things around.

Are you ready to take the next step in your fight for the benefits you deserve?

Contact Louis Law Group today for a free consultation. Call 833-657-4812 or submit a free case evaluation form to get started. Don’t wait—let us help you take the first step toward justice and financial recovery.