While I was lucky and my LTD carrier supplied a disability advocate at no cost to me, I cant imagine doing it on my own. The amount of paperwork was overwhelming. And when I got to the ALJ hearing I was provided with a lawyer who coached me through the entire process. I asked her about using an advocate company vs a straight up lawyer and she said the advocates were usually cheaper. Mine was Allsup. Also - they do not get paid unless you win so they work very hard for you. I just think there is so much to all of this that not being represented is a risk. What if I had filled out something wrong or said the wrong thing? They went through each and every question with me. They told me what to fix or how to word it. I look at it this way - once you lose - you lose...there is no changing that fact. Why not do all you can to insure the best outcome for you and your family? Even if they take 20% - thats 80% more than you would have gotten if completely denied. JMHO and I wish you the best.