Before Hiring a Disability Lawyer, Read This

Navigating the World of Disability Lawyers: Why Considering a Civil Lawsuit Matters

Many people in Georgia, when faced with serious injuries, quickly search for “disability lawyers near me.” This search is a vital first step in getting help. But it’s important to know that sometimes, you can get more help by also looking into a civil lawsuit. At the Wetherington Law Firm, we specialize in civil lawsuits, but we also connect clients with experienced disability lawyers in Georgia. This way, our clients get the best of both worlds.

What is a Disability Claim?

A disability claim is a formal request made by an individual who cannot work due to a physical or mental disability. This claim is submitted to a government agency or an insurance company. In Georgia, these claims are often submitted to the Social Security Administration for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The purpose of a disability claim is to provide financial assistance to those who are unable to earn a living due to their disability.

When to Consider a Disability Claim

You should consider a disability claim if:

• You have a long-term or permanent injury or illness that prevents you from working.
• Your condition is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
• You have a sufficient work history (for SSDI) or meet income requirements (for SSI). We have written a short guide on these two programs here.

The Role of Disability Lawyers in Georgia

Disability lawyers specialize in helping individuals with their disability claims. They can:

• Help gather and submit the necessary medical documents and evidence.
• Represent you in hearings or appeals if your claim is initially denied.
• Advise you on the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

The Potential for a Civil Lawsuit AND a Disability Claim

Disability lawyers are experts who help people get benefits when they can’t work because of their injuries or illnesses. They know all about the rules for disability claims. These lawyers are very important in Georgia, as they make sure people get the money they need to live when they can’t work. However, sometimes disability claims don’t give enough money to cover all the costs and troubles caused by the injury.

This is where civil lawsuits come in. A civil lawsuit is a way to ask for more money from the person or company that caused your injury. This money can cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. In Georgia, the money from civil lawsuits can often be much more than what you get from a disability claim.

The Wetherington Law Firm’s Unique Approach to Disability Cases

At the Wetherington Law Firm, we understand the nuances of both disability claims and civil lawsuits. While we refer disability cases to qualified attorneys across Georgia, our forte lies in handling civil lawsuits. Our approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive legal support, benefiting from our expertise in cases where suing responsible parties is the best course of action.

Resources for Filing a Disability Claim in Georgia

In Georgia, there are several resources available for filing a disability claim:

• The Social Security Administration (SSA) website provides detailed information on how to apply for SSDI and SSI.
• Georgia’s Department of Labor offers assistance and guidance on disability services.

But, the best thing to do is to just call us and allow us to evaluate your case for a potential civil claim before receiving a referral to a disability lawyer.

Success Stories from the Wetherington Law Firm’s Disability Clients

Our success stories highlight the impact of our approach. For instance, a client in Georgia, who initially sought a disability lawyer for a work-related injury, was referred to us. By pursuing a civil lawsuit, we secured compensation that far exceeded what a disability claim would have offered, addressing not only immediate financial needs but also long-term suffering and lifestyle changes.