Lawrence Social Security Disability Lawyer
Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, is an essential resource for disabled individuals. It can provide necessary income if you cannot work due to a medical condition.
If you live with a disability in Lawrence, Massachusetts, you are not alone. In this city of more than 88,000 people, over 10 percent identify as disabled. Inability to work is also common. Only 34.9 percent of working-age residents report having jobs.
SSDI benefits can help, but the claims process is infamously complex. The average wait time for a hearing at the Social Security Administration hearing office in Lawrence is a frustrating 10 months. Having a skilled Social Security disability lawyer on your side can help make things easier. At Rob Levine Law in Lawrence, we have extensive experience handling SSDI claims and have helped many people claim benefits.
Find out what your case is worth.
Legally Reviewed by:
Last Updated:
September 24, 2025
Table of Contents
- What a Lawrence Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Do for You
- Who Qualifies for Social Security Benefits in Lawrence?
- The Social Security Disability Claims Process
- What Happens if My Claim Is Denied?
- Why You Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer
- Contact Rob Levine Law for a Free Consultation
- Social Security Disability FAQs
What a Lawrence Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Do for You
When you have a disability case, you need a lawyer experienced with Social Security matters. An experienced SSDI lawyer understands eligibility criteria in detail and can navigate the claims process efficiently. With their guidance, you can assemble a strong application package with a better chance of approval.
Our Social Security disability team has worked on SSDI cases nationwide and continues to protect applicants’ rights. These skilled attorneys have contributed to our firm’s track record of over $2 billion in compensation and benefits for clients. Some of our notable results in Social Security cases include the following:
- $86,210: A Haverhill, MA, resident was suffering from back pain, sleep apnea, obesity, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and bipolar disorder. The client could not work or interact with others because their conditions were so severe. Attorney Ellen Elwell and the team secured the benefits they needed.
- $14,925: A Lawrence-based client suffered from chronic migraines, sciatica pain, asthma, and bipolar disorder. Ellen Elwell presented the necessary evidence to win approval for benefits.
- $2,946: A Lawrence resident suffered from hydrocephalus, asthma, and chronic pain. Attorney Dee Hansberry proved these conditions’ impact on the client’s well-being and obtained approval for benefits.
Who Qualifies for Social Security Benefits in Lawrence?
Lawrence, Mass., residents are eligible for SSDI if they meet the following requirements:
- The individual has a disabling condition that prevents them from working in their previous job or any other substantial gainful activity.
- The condition is expected to last at least a year or result in death.
- The condition meets the SSA’s eligibility criteria.
- The individual has accrued the required work credits for Social Security coverage.
If you do not meet these qualifications, you may be eligible for Social Security Income, or SSI. SSI is a needs-based program that provides low-income individuals with aid for necessities such as food, clothing, and housing. SSI benefits are available to those who are disabled or at least 65. You do not need a work history to apply, but you can’t have more than a certain threshold in income and assets.
If you apply for either program in Massachusetts, MassAbility Disability Determination Services, or DDS, will process your initial application. It will also process your appeal if you receive a denial.
The Social Security Disability Claims Process
To receive SSDI benefits, you first need to complete an application. The simplest way is usually to apply online via the SSA’s website. You will need the following information:
- Social Security number
- Most recent income tax form
- Banking details
- Disability-related medical information
- Employment details for the past five years
- Citizenship and resident information
It’s important to fill out the form as completely as possible. The information you provide supports your claim.
Next, your application will go to a disability examiner who will review your paperwork. They may ask for an additional medical exam, which your treating physician may perform if they are qualified and willing. You will receive a decision after the examiner has considered all available evidence.
If the examiner denies your claim, don’t give up. There are several ways to request a review of your case.
What Happens if My Claim Is Denied?
The SSA may deny your claim for medical or other reasons. The SSA may have insufficient proof that your disability is severe or prolonged enough to qualify. Sometimes, there is evidence that the applicant failed to follow the treatment protocol. The SSA may also deny you for exceeding income levels or having an insufficient work history.
Appeal Opportunities
If you receive a denial for any reason, you can contest the decision through the following four levels:
- Reconsideration: This is a full review of your application from a different reviewer. You must submit a request for reconsideration within 60 days of the initial denial.
- Judicial hearing: If you disagree with the result of your reconsideration, you may request a hearing with an administrative law judge. The judge will interview you about your disability and let you ask questions.
- Appeal: If you disagree with the judge’s decision or do not receive a hearing, you have 60 days to request a review from the Appeals Council. It may deny your request, review it internally, or return it to a judge.
- Federal lawsuit: If you disagree with the Appeals Council’s decision, you may file a civil action in the nearest U.S. District Court.
"At the end of the day, an appeal is fighting for your disability, saying we don’t agree with them saying that you’re not disabled and you can work. By appealing, you have a certain amount of time, 60 days, to file an appeal to the next level. But we’re going to keep fighting all the way until the end."
– Nikcole Cotnoir
Nikcole finds fulfilment in helping people get their livelihood back after a disabilty – it’s why she does the job.
Social Security Manager
Strengthening Your Case
You may send additional information to support your appeal or hearing request. The SSA relies most heavily on medical evidence, such as:
- Reports from licensed providers
- Records or statements from professionals who have treated you
- Statements of your functional ability from sources such as social welfare agencies, social workers, employers, or alternative treatment providers
- Documentation of your symptoms
It’s essential to send as much evidence as you have available. Consult an attorney for specific recommendations.
What a Lawrence Social Security Attorney Will Want to Know
When you contact a Social Security lawyer at our Lawrence office, they will want to know about your situation. It helps to have answers to the following questions ready to go:
- What is your specific disabling condition?
- How long has your condition been this way?
- When did you last work?
- What kind of work have you done over your career?
- What is the date of your most recent denial?
- What reason did the SSA give for your denial?
Your answers will help the attorney advise you on the next steps.
Why You Need a Social Security Disability Lawyer
If you need to apply for SSDI or have received a denial, a Lawrence disability lawyer can help you build and present a stronger case. They can help you complete and file the proper paperwork, including any evidence supporting your claim.
Our Lawrence disability attorneys have extensive experience handling SSDI claims and draw on an in-depth knowledge of the legal system. If you receive a denial, we can guide you through filing an appeal.
We can represent you during appeals and hearings with the SSA, so you can be certain your rights are protected. We understand what judges and administrators want to know and will advise you on presenting your case so that you can be confident in your chances for approval.
Outstanding Service for Disability Claims
This law firm did an awesome job for me, and I advise anyone who needs help getting approved for Social Security disability to call this law firm. Thank you for your services, AWESOME JOB!
Alphonso S.
Expert Assistance with Disability Appeals
After being denied Social Security Disability twice by the SSA, I contacted Rob Levine Law to assist me in preparing my appeal for disability. Daniela Vergara was assigned to assist me with the case. She and the law firm did a great job helping me get Social Security Disability. I highly recommend the firm.
Charles W.
Kind and Considerate Disability Assistance
I tried for two years to get approved for disability, and all it took was a few months with Rob Levine Law to get approved. They helped me every step of the way. They were kind and considerate. I really appreciate everything they have done for me.
Janell H.
Rob Levine Law: With You Through the Long Haul
Rob Levine was with me the whole 15 months this process took to complete. They kept me informed and up to date on my case and the procedures of the Social Security Disability system.
Joseph C.
Keeping You Informed Every Step of the Way
So far, my experience with this firm has been exceptional, and Robin has done a great job keeping me informed and confident in my SSDI appeals process.
Kyle C.
Contact Rob Levine Law for a Free Consultation
Need a disability attorney in Lawrence? The team at Rob Levine Law is here to advocate for your needs. We’re available 24/7 to talk to you, and there’s no fee unless you win.
Call (800) 742-3920 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.
Social Security Disability FAQs
Do I need an attorney to file for Social Security Disability?
The law doesn’t require you to have a lawyer, but your chances for approval are better with an experienced advocate on your side.
How long does it take to get SSD benefits?
According to the SSA, the average processing time for a disability application is 232 days, or 8.5 months.
Can I apply for SSDI and SSI at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for and receive SSDI and SSI simultaneously. However, the programs have differing purposes and eligibility requirements.
Will I win my disability case with a lawyer?
There are no guarantees, and the success of your claim depends on your unique circumstances. However, independent research suggests that attorney representation can triple your chances of success.
Get Your Free Consultation Now
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Notable Case Results
$500,000
Client was crossing Pawtucket Avenue in East Providence when he was struck by a car. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Our office represented the family, getting them the full policy limits.
$950,000
Client was riding his motorcycle on Londsale Avenue in Pawtucket. Defendant took a left out of a side street and slammed directly into our client on their motorcycle. Client was rushed to Rhode Island hospital, trauma 1 center where they attempted to perform surgery but the client passed away from his injuries. Rob Levine Law […]
$500,000
We represented two clients that were jetskiing in Newport. Another jetski hit them causing severe injuries, as they were rushed to Rhode Island Hospital. Each had fractures to their extremities. We were able to settle for defendants policy limits.
$1,005,000
Veteran that after years of serving in the US Air Force in the early 1980s, she suffered from PTSD and was a sexual misconduct victim in the service. Our firm won over a million dollars in back benefits for the vet.
Outstanding Support and Communication
My experience with Rob Levine Law was extremely good; it exceeded my expectations. My process was extremely long (3 years), but Ms. Vergara and Ms. Kelly kept me informed about every update or change that happened. I highly recommend their services.
René H.
Highly Recommend for SSDI Assistance
Lyndsey Kelly was my attorney and was very friendly and helpful. She asked me questions at the SSDI hearing in a way that I did not feel overwhelmed. She called me right after the hearing to let me know how she felt it went. I highly recommend her. I will be waiting for the judge’s […]
William S.
Prompt and Reliable Legal Support
James Hodder was a great lawyer, right on top of things. Returned phone calls promptly. Definitely recommend this firm!
Lisa K.
Reliable and Compassionate Assistance
A huge thank you to Daniela V and James Hodder. It was a long journey, but they both helped me get through this process. Again, thank you to both of you.
Vicki C.
Outstanding Legal Assistance
Ellen Elwell, Esq. was absolutely brilliant. I would highly recommend Rob Levine Law.
Kati G.
Valuable Support with Deep Military Insight
Krista has been a huge help with my VA claim. Her knowledge of the process, as well as her understanding of the military experience in general, has made this a much easier time for me. She really does value and appreciate veterans, so I am very lucky to have her represent me.
Dave D.
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