Too often I have prospective clients come to me and show me a letter from an out-of-state disability group or law firm that states “we have been hired by your long-term disability carrier to handle your Social Security Disability claim.”  Suddenly, the person thinks he has an attorney even though he has not signed a contract.  Confusion sets in and the person feels bound to have that group or firm handle their claim even though it would be more convenient and make more sense to hire a local attorney to handle the matter.

The first question the person has is:  Am I required to continue on with this disability group or law firm hired by my long term disability carrier?  The answer is:    No! No!  and No ! ! !   And you should not.  In fact, in my opinion, this practice is UNETHICAL and violates the basic rule of attorney professional conduct that prohibits solicitation of clients and also poses major conflicts of interest.  

Additionally, it is highly questionable as to whether such an outfit is really representing you or the interests of the long-term disability carrier.  Remember where their bread and butter comes from.  It comes from the long-term disability carrier.

It is best to say “No Thank You” to their attempt to represent you in your claim.  You are better off hiring an attorney accessible to you locally in your state who practices in this area on a regular basis.  An attorney who deals regularly with the administrative law judges and the staff at your local hearing office will probably better serve you than will an attorney who flies in from out of state to meet you for the first time 30 minutes before hearing and then introduces himself to the judge for the very first time.