When a claimant retains our firm we make every possible effort to put them in the best position to secure a favorable decision on their claim.
A very helpful tip that we often give out after we receive a date for their hearing is to have them keep a journal for two or three days. The journal will document all of their activities from the time they get up in the morning until they go to bed at night. The purpose of the journal is for them to write down the types of activities they are able to perform and the ones they have difficulty doing.
The reason for documenting this information is so that they will be able to give more useful testimony at the time of their hearing. It is common for Law Judges to ask the claimant how they spend a typical day from the time they get up in the morning until the time they go to bed at night.
It sounds like an easy question to answer, but its not. Many people assume that the Judge knows that they experience pain or have difficulties with simple daily activities. However, the Judge does not know this. In order to paint a picture for the Judge it is important that specific detailed testimony be given regarding the activities the claimant is able to do without a problem and those he or she struggles with. An hour-by-hour journal is often a useful way to insure that you are not forgetting any important pieces of information at the time of your testimony.
If you would like to consult with our firm about possible representation for a Social Security hearing, we would be happy to speak with you.
