Navigating the Social Security Disability (SSD) process can be overwhelming while dealing with a debilitating condition. The system is complex, with strict deadlines and high denial rates for initial applications. At O’Malley Tunstall, PC, our board-certified Social Security Disability lawyers have the specialized knowledge and dedication to guide North Carolina residents through this challenging process, significantly improving their chances of securing the disability benefits they deserve.

Key Takeaways

• Disabled individuals with legal representation are three times more likely to secure Social Security Disability benefits compared to those without specialized attorneys.
• Approximately 70% of initial SSD applications are denied by Disability Determination Services, making legal expertise crucial for navigating the appeals process.
• Legal fees are regulated by the Social Security Administration and only charged if you win your case (typically capped at 25% of past-due benefits).
• Susan M. O’Malley, a board-certified specialist in Social Security Disability law, brings specialized knowledge of SSA requirements that general practice attorneys don’t possess.
• Contact O’Malley Tunstall, PC at (919) 277-0150 for a free case review with our experienced disability attorneys in Raleigh.

1. Specialized Knowledge of Social Security Disability Laws

Understanding the Complex Legal Framework

Social Security Disability law involves complex regulations, procedures, and federal court system requirements. At O’Malley Tunstall, PC, Attorney Susan M. O’Malley is a North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Social Security Disability law. As an original board member on the state’s specialization committee, she brings unparalleled expertise to your disability claim.

This specialized knowledge allows our disability lawyers to:

• Interpret SSA regulations as they apply to your specific medical condition
• Anticipate challenges in the disability process and prepare effective responses
• Stay current with changes in disability law that might affect your application
• Apply relevant case precedents to strengthen your appeal to Administrative Law Judges

Knowledge of Medical Evidence Requirements

Successful disability claims depend on an effective presentation of the right medical records. Our attorneys understand exactly what documentation the SSA requires for different conditions and how to ensure your records communicate the severity of your impairments. We work with healthcare providers to obtain detailed statements about your inability to perform substantial gainful activity—essential for securing benefits under the SSA’s definition of disability.

2. Higher Success Rates for Benefits Approval

Dramatically Improved Chances of Success

Statistics show that applicants with disability attorneys are three times more likely to secure SSD benefits. This significant advantage occurs because lawyers who specialize in social security disability cases:

• Complete SSD applications properly to avoid common denial reasons
• Frame your medical condition and work history to match SSA’s definition of disability
• Identify potential issues before they lead to denied benefits
• Prepare clients effectively for examinations and hearings

Expertise in the Appeals Process

With approximately 70% of all initial applications denied, navigating the appeals process is often critical to securing benefits. Our Social Security Disability attorneys have extensive experience representing clients at all levels:

• Reconsideration by the state Disability Determination Services
• Hearings before Charlotte Administrative Law Judges
• Social Security Appeals Council reviews
• Federal Court litigation

Our familiarity with Administrative Law Judges who hear Raleigh cases gives our clients a significant advantage, allowing us to tailor strategies based on individual judges’ preferences and decision patterns.

3. Comprehensive Case Development and Preparation

Many applicants make critical mistakes that lead to unnecessary denials. Our disability attorneys help you avoid these pitfalls by:

• Ensuring all forms are completed correctly and thoroughly
• Gathering comprehensive medical evidence that addresses SSA requirements
• Documenting work history to support your disability claim
• Demonstrating how your condition meets the SSA’s definition of disability

If your claim has already been denied, we develop a strategic approach to your appeal that directly addresses the reasons for denial. This includes obtaining additional medical testing, securing detailed statements from physicians, developing vocational evidence, and preparing you thoroughly for hearings.

O’Malley Tunstall, PC, has helped countless Raleigh residents develop winning disability cases even after initial denials, as our client testimonials demonstrate.

4. No Upfront Costs with Contingency Fee Structure

Many people hesitate to seek legal help due to financial concerns. At O’Malley Tunstall, PC, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay no upfront costs or hourly fees
• We only collect a fee if we help you win benefits
• Our fee is regulated by the SSA and typically capped at 25% of past-due benefits
• All fee agreements are approved by the SSA, ensuring fairness

This fee structure makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances. Even considering the fee, most clients receive significantly more benefits with an attorney’s help than they would on their own. Specialized attorneys often secure approvals faster and maximize benefit amounts by ensuring all eligible periods are included.

5. Full-Service Representation Throughout the Process

Comprehensive Support

When you choose a specialized attorney, they handle all communication with the SSA on your behalf, including responding to requests for information, monitoring application status, following up on delays, and ensuring all deadlines are met. This allows you to focus on your health while having confidence your claim is being handled professionally.

If your case proceeds to a hearing, our attorneys will prepare you thoroughly for questioning, present your case effectively, question expert witnesses, and make persuasive legal arguments. These hearings are often the most important opportunity to secure benefits, and having an experienced advocate can make all the difference.

Contact O’Malley Tunstall, PC for Social Security Disability Representation

The Social Security Disability process can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. O’Malley Tunstall, PC, provides specialized legal representation to help disabled individuals in Raleigh, High Point, Rocky Mount, and throughout North Carolina obtain the benefits they deserve. Don’t risk a denial of your disability claim—contact our team today for a free case review:

• Phone: (919) 277-0150
• Free Case Evaluation: Click here to schedule your consultation
• Address: 8300 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh, NC 27615

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most an attorney can charge for disability?

Under SSA rules, an attorney’s fee is generally capped at 25% of your past-due benefits, ensuring fees remain reasonable and are only payable if you win your case. At O’Malley Tunstall, PC, our fee agreements are transparent and SSA-approved.

What conditions automatically qualify you for disability in NC?

No condition automatically qualifies you for SSD benefits. The SSA requires that your impairment is medically determinable, prevents substantial gainful activity, and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. We help clients understand if they meet these criteria and effectively document their limitations.

Is it better to get a lawyer for disability?

Absolutely. O’Malley Tunstall, PC, has decades of experience navigating the SSD system. Our expert representation significantly improves your chances of approval by ensuring your application is complete, accurately documented, and presented effectively to the SSA.

How long does it take to get disability in NC with a lawyer?

Our experience shows that initial SSD decisions often come within three to five months. If an appeal is necessary, we work diligently to expedite the process, typically resolving cases within 12–18 months while keeping you informed.

Where can I hire a Social Security lawyer that helps with disability benefits?

O’Malley Tunstall, PC, offers specialized Social Security Disability representation in Raleigh and throughout Eastern North Carolina. Our board-certified specialist, Susan M. O’Malley, has decades of experience helping disabled individuals. Contact us at (919) 277-0150, visit our contact page, or visit our office at 8300 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh, NC 27615.