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I have a lot of respect for attorney Jeff Rabin. I am quoting something he used to say about hearings:

Quote:
Hearings
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Hi -

You need your attorney to help you prepare for your specific hearing and judge but I'll tell you what I tell my clients.

These are informal hearings - these are not like anything you have seen on television or in the movies. The purpose of the hearing is to give you a chance, and it is the ONLY chance you get, to go face to face with the decision maker. The ALJ is not bound by any of the earlier decisions on your case and she/he is trying to listen and determine whether you have met your burden under the Social Security Act to prove entitlement. In many cases it really boils down to who does she/he believe - and the hearing gives you a chance to explain to the Judge just why you are there, instead of being out working and leading a more productive life.

I tell my clients that until they walk into that room their case is nothing more than another stack of papers on the ALJs desk. In the hearing you make that stack become a real person.

The easiest thing about a SS hearing is that it is all about the truth. All you are going to do is talk about what your life is realy like. Don't expect a lot of action from the lawyer - my belief is that we earn our fees before the hearing, in the preparation. I've done hearings and said almost nothing and won the claim - other times you do have to advocate more forcefully.

Bottom line, relax - it's all about your life, your reality and that makes it easy. Your lawyer will be able to prepare you for the issues specific to your claim. Good luck and let us know what happens!!

Jeff Rabin