Having a lawyer throughout the application process can help ensure that you craft a legal strategy tailored to your needs. And, hiring a lawyer or representative early can help ensure that your records are robust and consistent throughout the application process.

No matter what stage, you can expect a lawyer or representative to help you gather your records, respond to requests from SSA, and, generally, navigate the process so you can focus on your health. You can hire a lawyer at any stage, but it can be particularly important to have a lawyer or representative at the hearing stage where you are three times as likely to win with a lawyer or rep beside you.

Here is what you should expect at each stage.

Initial Application stage: A lawyer will help gather your medical records, let you know if you should get supplemental records, answer questions about the process so you feel knowledgeable and comfortable, and help you fill out your application persuasively and accurately.

Post-denial stage: A lawyer should ensure any appeal is on time and provide supplemental records or information to help prove your case, if necessary.

Hearing stage: Your lawyer or representative will prepare you for the hearing — helping you predict and prepare answers to questions from the judge. They’ll also cross-examine the vocational expert present at your hearing. Vocational experts (VEs) are hired by the government to propose jobs you could reasonably do with your medical limitations. Your lawyer will anticipate which jobs the VE will propose, and argue your condition makes working these jobs impossible. They’ll also be able to draft supplemental briefing after the hearing, if necessary.