Having represented people before Social Security Judges for 35 years there are some common things one should know:
First, in a chronic pain case you are going to be asked what your pain level is from zero to ten. You should be wary of claiming it is a nine if your medical records all claim you said it was a three or four. Your complaint about this is not going to be credible if you engage in hunting, fishing, camping, yard work, long drives, bicycling, etc. Also, your claim of severe pain may not be believed if you do not take narcotics and are able to get by with over the counter Advils.
Second, in almost every case, you will be asked how long you can sit, how long you can stand, and how much you can lift. Again, this should be consistent with your medical records. This is especially the case if your doctor has completed a functional capacity evaluation on your residual ability to do various activities. You need to review this before the hearing.
Third, you will be asked about the side effects of your medications. This could be important if the side effects are disabling. However, you need to make sure the side effects are side effects that result from the particular drug. Also, even though you are taking a drug that could cause side effects it does not mean it causes side effects in your case (especially if you have never complained about these drugs in the medical records).
Fourth, you need to tell the truth about everything. Most likely, the judge will be very familiar with your medical record. Thus, if you exaggerate your complaints and this is contradicted by the medical record then the judge is not going to believe you. Also, if a friend or relative testifies for you, you need to make sure you and the witness are on the same page. It is not going to do you any food if the friend says you ride motorcycles with him when you claim to,be bedridden.
Fifth, often a vocational expert will testify at your hearing. It is important that the consultant hears your testimony. Generally, he or she will be a neutral witness. The vocational consultant will be asked to state the skill level and strength level of all the jobs you have done in the last 15 years. Then the judge and perhaps your lawyer will ask the consultant a series of hypothetical questions. Often, the first question will ask the consultant to assume you have the same restrictions that have been previously stated by Social Security. This will of course elicit a response that you can do either your past relevant work or some form of light duty work. Hopefully, there will be additional questions to the consultant based on your impairments and your testimony that will result in positive answers from the consultant that will help you win your case. One question would simply be if you are credible about your complaints would the expert rule out all jobs.
In summary, these are five suggestions about your Social Security Disability testimony.
Source by Jerry Lutkenhaus