Social Security Disability Lawyers in New Jersey & Pennsylvania

Filing for SSDI or SSI? Get Help From Experienced Attorneys Who Know the System

If you’re unable to work due to a physical or mental impairment, Social Security Disability benefits may be your only source of income. But the claims process is notoriously difficult—even eligible applicants are denied the first time. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we help individuals and families navigate the SSDI and SSI systems with precision, compassion, and results-focused strategy.

Whether you’re just starting a claim, appealing a denial, or dealing with medical evidence requests, we’re here to help you fight for the benefits you earned.

What Are Social Security Disability Benefits?

There are two primary federal disability programs:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): For individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work due to a medical condition.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A needs-based program for individuals with little to no income or work history.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as the inability to engage in “substantial gainful activity” due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. (Learn more from SSA)

Why SSD Claims Are Denied

According to the SSA’s own data, nearly 67% of initial claims are denied. Common reasons include:

• Insufficient medical evidence
• Failing to follow prescribed treatment
• Earning too much income while applying
• Misunderstanding the “residual functional capacity” (RFC) standard
• Errors in documentation or deadlines

Our attorneys address these issues early and aggressively. We help gather and present the strongest possible evidence to show how your condition affects your ability to work.

We Handle Every Stage of the Process

We represent clients throughout all phases of their Social Security claims:

• Initial Application Assistance: Get your claim filed correctly from the start.
• Request for Reconsideration: We handle appeals when benefits are initially denied.
• Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Hearings: Prepare for hearings and advocate for your case.
• Appeals Council Review: If your hearing is denied, we escalate your case with a targeted legal argument.
• Federal District Court Appeals: We represent clients in federal court if necessary.

We also assist with long-term delays, overpayment disputes, and benefits suspension.

Conditions That May Qualify

SSA maintains a list of qualifying impairments in the Blue Book. We’ve helped clients obtain benefits for:

• Spine disorders (herniated discs, stenosis)
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Mental health conditions (PTSD, depression, anxiety)
• Autoimmune diseases (lupus, MS)
• Chronic pain and fibromyalgia
• Epilepsy and neurological disorders
• Long COVID and post-viral syndromes

Even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify based on its effect on your ability to work.

Let Us Deal With SSA—So You Can Focus on Healing

Filing and fighting for disability benefits is mentally and physically exhausting. Let our legal team take the pressure off. We:

• Gather and submit medical records and vocational evaluations
• Help complete SSA forms and work history reports
• Prepare you for disability hearings
• Communicate directly with SSA on your behalf
• Push back on unjust denials and procedural delays

Denied Social Security Benefits? We’ll Help You Fight Back.

If you’re unable to work and struggling with the Social Security system, don’t give up—get legal help that levels the playing field. Ratliff Jackson LLP provides strategic representation for SSDI and SSI claims in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and beyond. We work closely with your doctors, gather persuasive evidence, and represent you with skill and clarity.

To schedule a confidential consultation, call 856-209-3111 or visit our consultation request page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer for a Social Security claim?
You are not required to have one, but statistics show that claimants represented by lawyers are significantly more likely to win their case—especially at the hearing level.

How long does it take to get SSD benefits?
Initial decisions usually take 3–6 months. If your claim is denied, appeals can add several more months or even a year depending on the region.

What are my chances of winning an appeal?
According to the SSA, claimants represented at ALJ hearings win approximately 45–60% of cases, compared to far lower rates for unrepresented applicants.

How are Social Security attorneys paid?
We work on a contingency basis for SSDI and SSI cases. That means you don’t pay unless we win—and our fee is capped by federal law, typically 25% of your past-due benefits.

What if my condition worsens after I file?
You can and should submit updated medical records. We help clients supplement their file at any stage to reflect the most current evidence.