Ways to Improve Your Case / How to Eliminate Jobs (Presented by National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives)

Effective case development in Social Security Disability practice requires understanding your claimant, your goals, and the evidence available. At a minimum, attorneys must notify the ALJ of medical records, obtain them (sometimes through HITMER), and prepare the claimant by reviewing key issues and evidence. However, most cases demand deeper development, including gathering complete medical and work records, SSA forms, education documents, medical source statements, witness testimony, and other supporting materials. The goal is to make the case as clear and efficient as possible for the judge—who has multiple hearings to manage—by submitting records early, clarifying vocational and earnings issues, and…