Having handled hearings for many New Orleans and other Louisiana Social Security disability claimants, I am often asked – how can I present my case most effectively at my Social Security disability hearing?
At your hearing, your testimony should focus on the following:
- Your physical symptoms, including your pain, its severity, and the resulting restrictions;
- Your functional capacity: ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, manipulate, and travel;
- Your current daily activities and any changes to your activities and life due to your disability;
- Maybe the requirements of the jobs you held in the last 15 years – exertional, skill, and stress levels; and
- Your current medical treatment: length, frequency, medication, etc.
Sometimes having friends, family or co-workers testify can help, but usually, the ALJ is more interested in your specific testimony. Plus, new regulations do not require ALJs to even comment on this witness testimony.
As a Louisiana Social Security disability lawyer, I have developed and polished many effective techniques for winning benefits. If you or someone you love is fighting for Social Security disability benefits, give us a call at Louisiana Disability Law. We have the experience to guide you through this difficult process and present the best possible case for you before the Administrative Law Judge.
