That counts for a lot.

Combine that with what we've both learned in this thread, that the basic 25% plus costs cap doesn't necessarily cover beyond the ALJ level, and it sounds like you could feel comfortable going forward with him.

Good luck !

I think that's worth saying in every thread when someone is considering a lawyer.

Spending $6000 isn't chump change for most of us.

I think it's a personal decision for each person applying. With what I know now and what I can accomplish now; I'd love to have that $6000 back. The thing is that I believe NOW I could review my medical documentation, see what was lacking, and discuss my concerns with my docs, but back when I started my application, that wasn't the case. My severe pain at that time, with minimal tools to battle it, didn't leave me with the mental acuity to help with my own case. Now I have periods like that, but it's not constant. The mental and physical abilities of the applicant, or their support system, are a consideration in whether a person should attempt to accomplish this themselves or get legal assistance.......and the $$$

Hi Josie. Thanks for your input. I'm actually filing my first appeal.
From what I understand at this level, only a teeeeny % get approved.
I filed my initial app by myself and got my denial within 2 months. not sure if that was a good sign or not?!
That's wonderful that you got approved so fast!


Now ain't THAT the truth! I've had many breakdowns by trying to do too much on my own....and the pain. forget it. I can't handwrite for very long, so I type. Just the initial application forms took me a month of sundays to fill out. (or so it seemed)

Rae