The top-rated social security disability lawyer in Lodi, California is Law Office of Gregory P. Goehring, rated 4.7 stars across 29 reviews. Other highly rated options include Andrew D. Smith, Attorney at Law, US Social Security Administration, Smith & Johnson Law, A Professional Corporation. This directory lists 11 social security disability lawyers serving Lodi.
Comparison
| # | Name | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Law Office of Gregory P. Goehring | 321 W Lodi Ave | (209) 334-3651 |
| 2 | Andrew D. Smith, Attorney at Law | 115 W Walnut St Suite 3 | (209) 333-9292 |
| 3 | US Social Security Administration | 1110 W Kettleman Ln STE 3 | (800) 772-1213 |
| 4 | Smith & Johnson Law, A Professional Corporation | 115 W Walnut St Suite 3 | (209) 333-9292 |
| 5 | Rosa Law Offices, PC | 115 S School St | (209) 333-8061 |
| 6 | McGladdery Jonathan | 420 W Pine St #2 | (209) 334-4109 |
| 7 | Sharon J Renschler Law Office | 600 York St | (209) 368-7290 |
| 8 | Trenton M. Diehl | 404 W Pine St STE 7 | (209) 310-2903 |
| 9 | Law Office of Robert O. Hardwick | 115 W Walnut St | (209) 333-8511 |
| 10 | SLOUP LAW FIRM, PC. - Sasha D. Sloup | 2020 W Kettleman Ln Suite F | (209) 334-5144 |
The Law Office of Gregory P. Goehring serves clients in Lodi, San Joaquin County, and the surrounding California region with Social Security Disability representation. The firm assists individuals who are unable to work due to medical conditions by preparing and filing disability benefit applications with the Social Security Administration. They also handle appeals for denied claims, including representation at administrative hearings before an Administrative Law Judge. Specific services include initial disability claim filings and appeals for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income benefits.
Andrew D. Smith, Attorney at Law provides legal representation for individuals applying for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income benefits. The firm assists clients throughout the multi-step application process, including initial filing, handling reconsideration requests, and representing claimants in appeals hearings. It also reviews denials to determine if further administrative or judicial remedies are appropriate. Andrew D. Smith works with clients residing in single-family homes, apartments, and assisted living facilities in Lodi, California.
US Social Security Administration in Lodi, California is known for assisting individuals with navigating the complex process of applying for Social Security disability benefits. The firm handles claims for those who are unable to work due to a long-term medical condition, guiding clients through initial applications, reconsiderations, and hearings. It serves clients throughout San Joaquin County who need representation to secure the financial support they qualify for under federal law. The practice also offers help with appealing a denied claim.
Smith & Johnson Law, A Professional Corporation assists individuals and families in Lodi who are navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability claims. It guides clients through initial applications, appeals, and hearings before the Social Security Administration. The firm represents those with long-term disabilities, helping them gather necessary medical records and complete required paperwork. Its practice also extends to residents of Stockton and the broader San Joaquin County area.
Rosa Law Offices, PC serves Lodi, California, and the surrounding communities of San Joaquin County, handling Social Security Disability claims for local residents. It assists clients through the complex process of applying for SSDI and SSI benefits from the Social Security Administration. The firm manages initial applications, appeals for reconsideration, and hearings before an administrative law judge. For a typical case, it gathers medical records and work history evidence to build a supported disability claim that meets federal eligibility standards.
McGladdery Jonathan provides legal representation for Social Security Disability claims in Lodi, CA, focusing on the distinct application and appeals process rather than recurring maintenance services. The firm handles initial disability filings and subsequent hearings before administrative law judges, covering the full range of benefits including SSDI and SSI. Services operate on a case-by-case, one-time basis for each claim or appeal, running as needed from the initial consultation through a final decision.
Sharon J Renschler Law Office offers focused assistance with Social Security Disability claims in Lodi, California. The firm guides individuals through the application and appeals process for disability benefits, helping them document medical evidence and meet strict deadlines. It provides representation for hearings before administrative law judges when claims are denied. As local health concerns or seasonal changes like severe weather impact chronic conditions, the office helps clients navigate reopening claims or filing for continuing review updates.
In the often confusing process of filing for disability benefits in San Joaquin County, individuals frequently struggle with complex paperwork and strict deadlines. Trenton M. Diehl offers focused legal guidance for Social Security Disability claims from the Lodi office. This work involves helping clients gather necessary medical records and present their case effectively before the Social Security Administration. The initial step typically begins with a free case evaluation to review the applicant’s work history and medical condition.
The Law Office of Robert O. Hardwick provides legal representation for individuals seeking disability benefits. It focuses specifically on Social Security Disability claims, helping clients navigate applications and appeals with the Social Security Administration. The firm serves residents in and around Lodi, California. In addition to individual clients, the office offers its services to commercial sectors such as offices, warehouses, and food service businesses.
Serving residents throughout Lodi, California, Sloup Law Firm, P.C., led by Sasha D. Sloup, focuses on Social Security Disability claims. The firm assists clients who need representation when applying for disability benefits or appealing a denial. Its work typically covers hearings and document preparation through the Social Security Administration. After initial case resolution, the firm remains available for ongoing support, including representation for continuing disability reviews and follow-up consultations scheduled between regular office visits.
What Does a a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Lodi Cost?
Hiring a social security disability lawyer in California typically involves no upfront costs. The SSA caps attorney fees at the lesser of 25 percent of past-due benefits or $7,200, as of 2025. This means if your back pay award is $20,000, the attorney would receive $5,000 (25 percent), not the full $7,200. If your back pay is $40,000, the attorney would receive the maximum $7,200. These fees are deducted directly from your back pay by the SSA, so you do not pay out of pocket. Some attorneys may charge a small fee for copying medical records, typically $10 to $50, but this is rare and must be disclosed.
This information is general and does not constitute legal advice. Fee structures and regulations may change, and you should consult with a qualified representative for guidance specific to your case.
About social security disability lawyers in Lodi
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two distinct federal programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSDI is available to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, earning sufficient work credits based on their age at the time of disability onset. Generally, a worker needs 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years, though younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. SSI, by contrast, is a needs-based program for disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. The SSA evaluates disability claims using its Blue Book, a listing of impairments that automatically qualify if the medical evidence meets specific criteria. Additionally, the SSA applies a Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold: for 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month (or $2,700 for blind individuals) generally disqualifies a claimant from receiving disability benefits. Understanding these differences is critical when seeking a social security disability lawyer in Lodi, as the attorney must assess which program applies to your situation.
The application process for disability benefits is multi-layered and often lengthy. Initial applications can be filed online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at the local Social Security office in Stockton, which serves Lodi residents. The SSA typically takes three to six months to process an initial application, but denial rates are high: approximately 60 to 70 percent of initial claims are denied nationwide, and California rates are similar. If denied, claimants must file a Request for Reconsideration within 60 days of the denial notice. Reconsideration is reviewed by a different examiner at the state Disability Determination Services (DDS) office, but denial rates remain high, often exceeding 80 percent. If reconsideration is denied, the next step is a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ hearing is the most critical stage, as approval rates at this level are significantly higher, often around 50 to 60 percent nationally. If the ALJ denies the claim, the claimant may appeal to the Appeals Council in Falls Church, Virginia, and ultimately to federal district court, though these later stages have very low success rates.
California-specific factors significantly impact disability claims for Lodi residents. The state Disability Determination Services (DDS) office responsible for Lodi is located in Sacramento, which processes medical evidence and makes initial disability determinations for the region. The local hearing office is the Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) in Sacramento, located at 650 Capitol Mall, Suite 6-100, Sacramento, CA 95814. Average wait times for an ALJ hearing in Sacramento have ranged from 8 to 14 months in recent years, though this can fluctuate based on caseload and staffing. Local approval rates for ALJ hearings in Sacramento have historically hovered around 50 to 55 percent, slightly below the national average. A social security disability lawyer in Lodi must be familiar with these local timelines and trends to advise clients on realistic expectations. Additionally, California does not have a state-specific disability program that replaces SSDI or SSI, but the state does offer State Disability Insurance (SDI) for temporary disabilities, which is separate from federal benefits.
Medical evidence is the cornerstone of any disability claim. The SSA requires objective medical evidence from acceptable medical sources, such as licensed physicians, psychologists, and certain other healthcare providers. Treating physician records are given the most weight, especially if the doctor has a long-term relationship with the patient and provides consistent treatment notes. The SSA may also order a Consultative Examination (CE) if the existing medical records are insufficient to make a determination. A CE is a one-time exam performed by a contracted physician, and it often carries less weight than treating source records. A Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment is a critical document that describes what a claimant can still do despite their impairments, including physical limitations (e.g., ability to lift, stand, walk) and mental limitations (e.g., concentration, memory, social interaction). Mental health evaluations are particularly important for claims based on depression, anxiety, PTSD, or cognitive disorders. Strong medical evidence includes consistent treatment records, diagnostic test results, hospitalizations, medication histories, and detailed physician opinions about functional limitations. A social security disability lawyer in Lodi will help gather and organize this evidence to build a compelling case.
Hiring expectations for a social security disability lawyer are governed by federal fee regulations. Attorneys and non-attorney representatives are both permitted to represent claimants, but attorneys must be licensed to practice law. Fees are contingency-based, meaning the representative is paid only if the claim is approved. The SSA caps fees at the lesser of 25 percent of past-due benefits (back pay) or $7,200, whichever is less. This cap applies to both attorneys and non-attorney representatives. There are no upfront costs; the representative typically files a fee agreement with the SSA, and the fee is deducted directly from the back pay award. If the claim is denied, the representative receives nothing. Some representatives may charge a small fee for copying medical records or other expenses, but these must be disclosed in advance. A social security disability lawyer in Lodi can provide guidance on whether an attorney or a non-attorney representative is more appropriate for your specific case, though attorneys generally have more legal training for appeals.
After approval, recipients must understand the ongoing obligations and benefits. Back pay is calculated from the date of disability onset, but SSDI has a five-month waiting period before benefits begin, so back pay typically covers the period after that waiting period. SSI back pay is calculated from the application date. Medicare eligibility for SSDI recipients begins 24 months after the date of entitlement to cash benefits, while SSI recipients are immediately eligible for Medicaid in California. Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) are periodic reviews conducted by the SSA to determine if the medical condition has improved. CDRs occur every three to seven years for conditions expected to improve, and every seven years for conditions not expected to improve. Working while on SSDI is allowed under the Trial Work Period (TWP), during which a recipient can earn any amount for nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a 60-month rolling period without losing benefits. After the TWP, the Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE) allows for 36 months during which benefits continue if earnings remain below SGA. The Ticket to Work program offers vocational rehabilitation and job placement services without risking benefits. A social security disability lawyer in Lodi can explain these post-approval rules and help navigate any complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Lodi, California Social Security office have local rules that differ from other California offices for disability claims?
No, the Social Security Administration applies the same federal regulations nationwide, so the Lodi office does not have unique local rules. However, the state Disability Determination Services (DDS) office in Sacramento handles medical evidence review for Lodi claims, and the local hearing office in Sacramento may have specific administrative procedures, such as scheduling practices and ALJ preferences. California law also requires that all SSI recipients receive Medi-Cal (California Medicaid) automatically, which is a state-specific benefit not available in all states.
What are the typical costs for hiring a social security disability lawyer in Lodi, California?
The fee for a social security disability lawyer in Lodi is strictly regulated by the SSA. The attorney can charge no more than 25 percent of your past-due benefits (back pay) or $7,200, whichever is less. This fee is only collected if your claim is approved. There are no upfront costs, and most attorneys will advance costs for obtaining medical records, which are reimbursed from your back pay. Some attorneys may charge a small administrative fee for copying records, but this must be disclosed in the fee agreement. Non-attorney representatives are subject to the same fee cap.
How long does the entire social security disability process take for a Lodi resident from initial application to a hearing?
The process typically takes 12 to 24 months from initial application to an ALJ hearing for Lodi residents. The initial application takes 3 to 6 months for a decision, followed by reconsideration taking another 3 to 5 months. If denied at both stages, the wait for an ALJ hearing in the Sacramento hearing office averages 8 to 14 months. After the hearing, a decision usually takes 30 to 90 days. If the claim is approved, back pay is paid within 60 days of the decision. Appeals beyond the ALJ level can add 12 to 24 months or more.