Social Security Disability Attorney in California

Dealing with a long-term disability is a profound life change. It’s more than a medical diagnosis—it impacts your ability to work, your financial stability, and your future. At Bay Legal, we combine legal knowledge with genuine understanding, providing strategic guidance tailored to your specific situation. Our role is to handle the complex claims process so you can focus on your health and move forward with security.

How the Social Security Disability Process Works?

Social Security Disability is a federal insurance program designed to provide a safety net if you are unable to work. It is not a handout; it is a benefit you have paid for through your work taxes. The process is governed by a strict legal definition of “disability,” and a successful claim must prove that your medical condition prevents you from maintaining substantial, gainful employment.

Here are the main issues that are resolved in a disability claim:

• Medical Eligibility: The core of every claim is providing sufficient medical evidence to prove that your physical or mental condition meets the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) requirements. This includes medical records, doctors’ opinions, and functional reports.

• Technical Eligibility: For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have earned enough “work credits” through your recent employment. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet strict income and asset limits.

• Alleged Onset Date (AOD): This is the date you and your attorney claim your disability began. The established date is crucial as it determines the amount of back pay you may be entitled to receive.

• Benefit Calculation: If your claim is approved, the SSA calculates your monthly benefit amount. For SSDI, this is based on your lifetime average earnings. For SSI, it is a standard federal amount that may be reduced by other income.

The Initial Application

This is the first step, where you formally file for benefits. While you can file on your own, a well-prepared initial application with strong supporting evidence has a better chance of success. We will:

• Help you gather and submit all necessary medical and vocational evidence.

• Prepare and file all required SSA paperwork accurately and on time.

• Build a strong, clear narrative for your case from the very beginning.

Reconsideration (The First Appeal)

Most initial applications are denied. This is a normal part of the process, and you should not give up. The first step in appealing is to file a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days. We will:

• Analyze the SSA’s reason for denying your claim.

• Update your file with any new medical evidence.

• Submit the appeal and communicate with the SSA on your behalf.

The ALJ Hearing (The Main Appeal)

If your reconsideration is also denied, the next and most critical step is a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your best opportunity to present your case in person. Strong legal representation at this stage is vital. We will:

• Prepare you for the hearing, so you know what questions to expect.

• Gather and submit all final evidence to the judge.

• Develop a legal brief outlining why you meet the standard for disability.

• Question vocational and medical experts and advocate for you directly before the judge.

Appeals Council & Federal Court Review

If an ALJ denies your claim, there are further levels of appeal. The first is a review by the Social Security Appeals Council, and the final step is filing a lawsuit in U.S. District Court. These are complex legal processes focused on identifying legal errors made in your case. Our attorneys are prepared to handle these advanced appeals when necessary.

Navigating this process alone can be overwhelming. Protect your right to benefits. Contact Bay Legal Today to learn how we can help you at every stage of your disability claim.

You Can Trust Bay Legal

Facing the Social Security Administration can be intimidating, especially when you are managing a health condition. We believe getting expert legal help should be straightforward and risk-free. Our firm is built on a foundation of trust and accessibility, designed to give you confidence at every step.

• Experienced California Attorneys: Our legal team focuses exclusively on disability law, providing knowledgeable and strategic representation.
• No Out-of-Pocket Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency basis. Our fee is a standard, SSA-approved percentage of the back pay you are awarded.
• Statewide Representation: We serve clients across California, from major cities to rural communities.
• Virtual or In-Person Consultations: Our modern approach means you can get expert legal help from the comfort of your home.

Who We Help

If you are unable to work due to a physical or mental health condition, we are here to help. Our clients are people who need assistance with:

• Applying for SSDI or SSI for the first time and want to build the strongest possible case from the start.

• Claims that have been unfairly denied and require a request for reconsideration or an appeal.

• Preparing for a critical hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).

• Navigating the final stages of a federal court appeal after an unfavorable ALJ decision.

Our Social Security Disability Services

We handle all stages of the Social Security Disability process. Our goal is to lift the burden from your shoulders so you can focus on your health.

Initial SSDI & SSI Claims

A successful claim starts with a thorough and accurate application. We help you gather medical evidence, document your work history, and present your case in the most compelling way to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Denied Claims & Reconsideration

Most initial disability claims are denied. This is not the end of the road. We will file a request for reconsideration on your behalf, strengthening your file with additional evidence and arguments.

Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearings

The hearing is your best opportunity to make your case in person. We will prepare you for the questions you will face, gather expert testimony if needed, and represent you before the judge, arguing on your behalf.

Federal Court Appeals

If your claim is denied after an ALJ hearing and by the Appeals Council, the final step is to file a lawsuit in federal court. Our attorneys are equipped to handle these complex appeals, fighting for your rights at the highest levels.

How Our Process Works

We make getting legal help straightforward and stress-free.

1. Free & Confidential Case Review Contact us to schedule a no-obligation conversation. We will listen to your story, review your situation, and provide an honest assessment of your claim and how we can help.

2. We Handle the Paperwork & Deadlines Once you become a client, we take over. We manage all communication with the SSA, file all necessary paperwork, and ensure every deadline is met.

3. Strategic Representation & Communication We build a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your case. We keep you informed at every stage and prepare you for any required interviews or hearings.

4. Working Toward a Resolution Our entire focus is on fighting for a favorable outcome that secures the benefits you need to move forward with your life.

Why Choose Bay Legal for Your SSDI Claim?

• California-Focused: We have a deep understanding of the disability claims process right here in California.

• Personalized Guidance: You are not just another case file. We provide the personal attention and respect you deserve.

• Contingency Fee Promise: Our SSA-approved fee structure means there is no financial risk to you. We only get paid if you do.

• A Modern, Accessible Firm: Our use of secure technology makes working with an attorney easier and more convenient than ever before.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is based on your work history. You qualify by earning enough “work credits” through paying FICA taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a need-based program for those who have not earned enough work credits and have very limited income and assets.

2. Am I eligible for disability benefits?

To be eligible, you must have a medically diagnosed physical or mental impairment that has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months (or result in death) and prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

3. How long does it take to get a decision?

The timeline varies significantly. An initial application can take 3-6 months. If your claim is denied and you appeal, the entire process, including a hearing, can unfortunately take a year or longer.

4. My claim was denied. What should I do?

Do not give up. Most people are denied initially. The most important thing is to appeal the decision within the 60-day deadline. Contacting an experienced disability attorney right away gives you the best chance of success on appeal.

5. How does the attorney fee work?

Our fee is set by the SSA. We receive a fee only if we win your case. It is calculated as 25% of the back pay you are awarded, capped at a specific amount determined by the SSA. You will never pay any out-of-pocket fees for our services.

Don’t wait to get the help you need. Your first step toward securing the benefits you deserve is a simple phone call. 📞 Call us at (650) 668-8000 to schedule your free, confidential case review with an experienced California disability attorney.

Attorney Advertising Disclaimer

This website and its contents are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every estate planning matter is unique and depends on specific circumstances and applicable law. Viewing this site or contacting Bay Legal, PC does not create an attorney–client relationship. If you need legal advice, please schedule a consultation with a licensed attorney.