Orlando Disability Appeals Lawyer Fight Back After an SSA Denial

If your disability claim has been denied, you’re not alone. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies about 67% of initial disability claims. For many in Orlando, this denial can feel like the end of the road—but with the help of an experienced disability appeals lawyer, it’s just the beginning of a new opportunity to fight for your benefits.

Why Disability Claims Get Denied

Even if you meet the medical criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your claim might still be denied due to:

• Incomplete or inaccurate forms

• Missing or insufficient medical records

• Income exceeding the SSA’s threshold

• Not following prescribed treatments

• SSA's belief that your condition isn’t severe or lasting enough

In fact, technical denials alone account for about 20% of all rejections.

What Happens After a Denial: Understanding the Appeals Process

If you’ve received a denial, you have 60 days to file an appeal. The SSA outlines four appeal levels (SSA.gov):

1. Reconsideration – A new SSA reviewer reevaluates your claim.

2. Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearing – You present your case to a judge.

3. Appeals Council Review – Your case is reviewed further by SSA staff.

4. Federal Court Review – You take legal action in a U.S. District Court.

Each step can take months, but hiring an attorney improves your chances. In fact, over 50% of applicants win at the ALJ hearing level, especially with legal representation (NOSSCR.org).

What a Disability Appeals Lawyer in Orlando Does

A local Orlando disability lawyer offers:

• A detailed review of your claim denial

• Assistance in gathering and submitting medical evidence

• Collaboration with doctors to prepare supporting documentation

• Direct representation during hearings and SSA communication

• Legal strategy tailored to local SSA practices and judges

Having someone familiar with Orlando’s Social Security offices and Administrative Law Judges can make a significant difference.

When to Call a Disability Appeals Lawyer

Reach out to a lawyer immediately if:

• You’ve received a denial letter

• You’re confused by the appeal process

• You don’t know what documents SSA needs

• Your condition has worsened since your last application

• You want to boost your odds of approval on appeal

The earlier a lawyer gets involved, the better they can build your case.

Why Local Experience Matters in Orlando

Working with a local Orlando disability appeals lawyer gives you an edge because they understand:

• The Orlando Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) and how it schedules and processes cases

• The preferences and tendencies of local Administrative Law Judges (ALJs)

• Florida-specific backlog issues and common reasons for denial in the region

• The best ways to prepare documentation that aligns with local SSA expectations

This familiarity can help you avoid costly delays, meet all deadlines, and present a more persuasive case.

How Louis Law Group Can Help

When your disability benefits are denied, Louis Law Group provides strong legal support through every phase of the appeals process. Our team can help you:

• Review your SSA denial letter and identify problem areas

• Collect updated and complete medical documentation

• Represent you at SSA hearings and follow through to higher levels if needed

• Advocate for your rights in federal court, if necessary

When it feels like the SSA is working against you, we’ll fight to make sure your voice is heard. Learn more on the Louis Law Group Disability Claims Resource Page.

FAQs About Disability Appeals in Orlando

Q: How long do appeals take in Florida?

Reconsideration usually takes 3–6 months. ALJ hearings can take 12–18 months due to local backlogs (SSA.gov).

Q: Is it better to appeal or start over?

Appealing is often better because it preserves your original filing date and avoids unnecessary delays. Reapplying may lead to another rejection if the issue isn’t fixed.

Q: Do I really need a lawyer for the ALJ hearing?

Technically no—but your chances improve significantly with legal representation, especially during the hearing phase (NOSSCR.org).

Q: How much does a disability lawyer cost?

Most work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing upfront. If you win, the SSA pays your lawyer up to 25% of your back pay, capped at $7,200 (SSA.gov).

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

You may still appeal with a valid reason (“good cause”), but don’t count on it. Contact a lawyer immediately to protect your claim rights.

Conclusion

A denied disability claim doesn’t mean you’ve reached a dead end. With the guidance of a skilled Orlando disability appeals lawyer, you can build a stronger case and take the steps needed to secure the benefits you deserve.

Are you ready to fight for the support you’ve earned?

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.