Witnesses at Social Security Disability Hearings
Many Social Security Disability claimants insist that witnesses testify on their behalf at their Social Security Disability Hearings. These witnesses are generally close friends or family members.
Testimony by witnesses is generally not necessary and is not recommended in most hearings. The Administrative Law Judge knows that friends and family members will repeat what the claimant has already stated. In Social Security Disability hearings, repetition is not necessary and does nothing to help the Administrative Law Judge make a decision. Repetition may be helpful in a civil jury trial, but it does nothing to help a Social Security Disability claimant in a Social Security Disability Hearing.
If a Social Security Disability claimant is unable to testify in a meaningful matter, witnesses may be used. For example, if a claimant has a severe psychiatric issue and is unable to speak coherently witnesses can be helpful. Also, if a claimant has organic brain damage, witnesses can be used effectively.
To increase your chances of winning your Social Security Disability claim it is important for you to hire an experienced Social Security Disability attorney to get you the Social Security Disability help you deserve. Please call us at 1-800-882-5500 or fill out a form on our website for a FREE claim evaluation.