The Federal Government WILL Hire Expert Witnesses to Testify Against You in a Court of Law at Your Social Security Disability Hearing !
Using MY tax dollars to hire expert witnesses to testify AGAINST ME in COURT ? That doesn’t seem fair!
That’s the reaction of most disabled workers when they see the Hearing notice from the Federal Government with letters to “Medical Experts” and “Vocational Experts” advising them they will be giving evidence at the Administrative Law Judge’s request.
In a case recently tried in Washington, D.C. by Social Security lawyer Doug Landau, the Social Security Administration (SSA) paid for a Vocational Expert to testify against a client of the Herndon Virginia law firm who had the following lengthy and complex medical history:
- 2002- Lumbar Surgery for Lumbar Radiculopathy;
- 2007- Lumbar Surgery for Lumbar Radiculopathy;
- 2009- Nerve Conduction Study remarkable for L5-S1 Radiculopathy;
- 2009- Diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, requiring use of a CPAP machine;
- 2010- Received a permanent spinal cord stimulator (“SCS”);
- History of High Blood Pressure since 2011; and
- History of Depression since 2011.
Despite undergoing surgery and medication to control these severe medical conditions, this disabled worker’s symptoms increased since January of 2012. Nevertheless, the Federal Judge used taxpayer dollars to pay for an expert witness. This is not uncommon in Social Security cases for younger individuals or those with transferable skills.
The best disability lawyers know how to prepare for such testimony. Lawyer Landau and his team conduct legal research, file their briefs well before the Hearing (so the judge can actually read presidential case law and highlights of the medical record), and work with lay and expert witnesses to help increase the chances of a “fully favorable” opinion.
If you or someone you know are disabled and think you are eligible for social security disability benefits, but have questions as to what laws apply, email or call Social Security Disability law firm Abrams Landau, Ltd. at once (703-796-9555).