At the Hearings Office on the Record

On the Record at the Hearings Office

If the state agency has denied a request for reconsideration, the case is appealed for a hearing. However, the fact that a claim is at a hearings office does not mean that a hearing has to occur before a favorable decision can be issued.

In view of the long wait before a hearing is scheduled I make every effort to win the case without a hearing. If the case has been denied at the agency level I prepare a legal brief explaining why a favorable decision can be entered on the basis of the evidence that has already been submitted.

In the brief, I highlight the medical and other evidence that has been presented to the Social Security Administration that compels a favorable decision on the existing record under applicable Social Security regulations and rulings.

I follow up the brief by personally contacting the hearing office to make sure that the appropriate hearing office employee, usually a senior attorney, has received the brief and that the case is being considered for a favorable decision. I ascertain what if anything additional is necessary before a favorable decision will be issued, and work to obtain that additional information.

Frequently as time goes on, my clients' medical conditions worsen or additional important evidence becomes available. Whenever new important evidence becomes available that supports a favorable decision, it is submitted to Social Security promptly, and if appropriate, I personally contact the appropriate hearing office employee to argue in favor of a favorable decision on the record.

Contact the Law Offices of Stuart Pastor for an Appointment

For a free initial consultation — at my office or over the phone — contact my office to schedule an appointment. Call toll-free, 1-888-616-6162, or send me an e-mail.