During my time in the Army, we had a saying “communication is key”. When you call Sutterfield Law Offices you will have the opportunity to discuss your case with a lawyer for free. During our first conversation, we tell everyone about the importance of communication. The way you communicate your injury or illness can make all the difference. First, if you are able to clearly and completely explain your symptoms and functioning to a doctor, they will be able to better treat you. Telling the doctor “I hurt” isn’t enough, you have to tell them how your pain affects you in your day to day life. For example, “My lower back hurts, so I have to lay on the couch throughout the day to manage my pain”. With a clear view of the big picture, the doctor can help you make the most improvement. Also, with a clear picture, the doctor will be able to report the severity of your conditions in her records. When we look at your case, the way you tell your story is also very important. You must be able to tell Social Security about your symptoms and your functioning. At Sutterfield Law, we speak Social Security’s language, and we will help you learn to talk the talk that will put you in the best position to receive a favorable decision. -Anthony Silva

Disability is the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a physical or mental impairment. Consistent treatment is the key to improving your health and winning your Disability claim. Consistent treatment is often a shortcoming in peoples’ claims, especially those suffering from mental health concerns. Whether it’s due to a frustration for lack of improvement, or some other reason, claimaints suffering from mental health disorders often lack a sufficient treatment history to prove their claim. When you have been diagnosed with a severe mental health disorder, first and foremost, consistent treatment helps you reach maximum improvement. With regards to your Social Security Disability claim, consistent treatment generates records that evidence the severity of your condition. The type of treatment matters too! People suffering from mental health disorders are best served by a counselor and a psychiatrist. If you are suffering from a severe mental health condition, you should talk to your primary care doctor immediately about a referral to speak with a counselor and a psychiatrist. Consistent treatment with a counselor and psychiatrist will allow you to work towards better days where your conditions are more manageable. Your consistent treatment with a specialist will also generate the evidence necessary for Social Security to properly weigh the severity of your condition, and award you a benefit. Call Sutterfield Law Offices today for a free consult with an experienced attorney.

Often times people wait too long to initiate their claim for disability benefits.  Most people want to return to work, which is understandable, but they often wait a year or more before applying for benefits. The Regulation defines disability as:

“the inability to do any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be                     expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

If you have a condition that has been ongoing for the past year or is expected to keep you from working for at least a year, you must explore your options for disability immediately.

When people wait it can cost them a lot! Waiting too long to file can affect your eligibility for SSDI, cost you money under the SSI program, and can result in a longer ultimate wait for benefits.  Applying for benefits, and subsequent appeals can take years.  You want to research your options as soon as possible so you can begin the application process early.

You can speak to an attorney for free at Sutterfield Law Offices.  We will evaluate your case, discuss any strengths and weaknesses, and advise you on what we believe is your best course of action. Our extensive experience and knowledge let us set you on the right track, call us today.