West Virginia Disability Law Services By An Experienced Attorney

Last updated on March 19, 2025

Becoming disabled can be a life-altering experience, bringing not only physical and emotional challenges but also financial uncertainty to entire families. If you are unable to work, securing Social Security Disability benefits is crucial – but the process can be frustrating, confusing and filled with obstacles. Denied claims and complex paperwork can make it feel impossible to get the support you need – but you don’t have to go through this alone.

At our disability law firm in West Virginia, the attorneys at Carey & Stewart, PLLC, bring over 100 years of combined legal experience and a dedicated staff with more than 40 years of combined experience to every case. Our seasoned team of West Virginia disability attorneys understands the system and will fight to secure the benefits you deserve.

What A Disability Attorney Can Do For You

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can be overwhelming, and errors in your application can lead to wrongful delays or denials. A West Virginia disability lawyer ensures that your claim is filed correctly from the start, significantly improving your chances of approval. The best way to avoid unnecessary appeals is to involve a disability attorney in West Virginia as early as possible.

Here’s how we help:

• Initial application assistance: Many first-time applicants are denied due to missing information or insufficient medical evidence. Our disability law firm in West Virginia ensures your claim is thorough, complete, and backed by strong medical documentation.
• Communication with the SSA: We handle all interactions with the Social Security Administration (SSA), making sure deadlines are met and requirements are fulfilled, reducing the risk of rejection.
• Preparing for hearings and appeals: If your claim is denied, we represent you at reconsideration hearings and before an administrative law judge (ALJ). Our experienced attorneys gather expert testimony, present compelling evidence and advocate for your rights.
• Medical and vocational evidence collection: A strong case requires substantial proof of your disability and how it impacts your ability to work. We work closely with doctors and vocational experts to provide the necessary documentation.

Navigating the disability system alone can be stressful and confusing. The earlier you seek legal representation, the smoother the process will be. Don’t wait until your claim is denied – contact a West Virginia disability attorney today to get started.

Social Security Disability Laws And West Virginia Applicants

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a strict definition of “disability.” To qualify, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

West Virginians applying for benefits must undergo a lengthy, multistep evaluation process, during which the SSA reviews medical records, work history, and vocational factors. If an initial claim is denied, the appeals process becomes even more complex. At this stage, SSA examiners often rely on vocational experts to argue that an applicant can still perform some type of work.

A West Virginia disability lawyer is essential in challenging these assessments, using medical records, expert testimony and legal arguments to prove that an applicant’s condition prevents them from maintaining employment. Having an experienced disability attorney in West Virginia on your side can make the difference between a successful appeal and further delays.

FAQs On Disability In West Virginia

Here are some answers to important questions about Social Security Disability claims:

1. How do I know if I qualify for Social Security Disability benefits?

To qualify, you must have a condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months and meets SSA’s medical criteria. A disability lawyer can review your case and provide guidance.

2. How common are disabilities in West Virginia?

Statistically speaking, approximately 19.5% of the population of West Virginia has some form of disability. While you are not alone in your struggle, you may feel like nobody is on your side when you file for benefits. Your disability attorney can help level the playing field.

3. What are common disabilities among West Virginia applicants?

Many different disabilities qualify for Social Security benefits, including musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia, various types of cancer, neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis and strokes, respiratory disorders like COPD and asthma, and mental health disorders such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and severe depression. In many cases, people suffer from a combination of conditions that – together – are disabling because they create overwhelming mental and physical challenges.

4. What if my Social Security Disability claim is denied?

Many claims are initially (and incorrectly) denied. A West Virginia disability lawyer can assist with the appeals process to strengthen your case and fight for the benefits you deserve.

5. How long does it take to get Social Security Disability benefits?

The initial application process typically takes three to five months. If denied, a reconsideration appeal can take another three to six months. If a hearing before an administrative law judge is needed, the process can extend from 12 to 18 months. Working with a disability attorney in West Virginia ensures your claim is handled efficiently, reducing delays.

6. How does a Social Security Disability lawyer get paid?

Disability attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Their fee is no more than 25% of your past-due benefits, up to a maximum amount set by federal law. You pay nothing upfront for legal representation, which makes solid guidance by a disability attorney in West Virginia affordable to all.

We Don’t Want You To Need Us, But We’ll Be Here When You Do: Reach Out Today

Social Security Disability benefits are not a handout – they are an entitlement that hardworking people have a right to receive when they are no longer able to work due to a disability. If you’ve been denied or need help with your application, our West Virginia disability attorneys are ready to fight for you.

You will hear a lot of half-truths and misinformation about Social Security Disability benefits and applications – but do not get discouraged or rely on rumors when you have so much at stake. Find out the truth by talking to an experienced disability attorney.

Call us at 304-914-3577 or send an email today – consultations with our disability law firm in West Virginia are always free, and we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless your claim is approved. Let us help you secure the financial and medical benefits you deserve!