The Pre-Hearing Conference

Posted April 11, 2018 by Premier Disability Services, LLC®

IBS monthMost people who apply for Social Security Disability are initially denied benefits. If you are denied at the initial level, or in most states a secondary “reconsideration” level, you can file a request for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) who will make a ruling on your claim independently from the decisions made at the earlier stages.After you request a hearing by submitting the proper SSA forms, the ALJ may decide to hold what is called a “prehearing conference.” These conferences are usually done by telephone. The ALJ does not have to hold a prehearing conference, but if the ALJ does, he or she will look to whether or not there is anything can be done to speed up the hearing process.

If you get a notice of a pre-hearing conference, do not ignore it.  We recommend that you seek the representation of a qualified advocate or attorney who can help you prepare the strongest case possible.

At a pre-hearing conference, you will be asked about the medical treatment you have been receiving.  The burden to provide evidence to support your disability is on you, and so it is up to you to provide the medical evidence about your mental and physical conditions that keep you from being able to work. The ALJ may also consider matters such as simplifying or amending the issues, obtaining and submitting evidence, and any other matters that may expedite the hearing.

If you or someone you know is unable to work due to a medical condition, please contact us for a free evaluation of your claim!

By: Joyce Trudeau of Premier Disability Services, LLC®