Business Details
19 Years
experience
Your Trusted Social Security Disability Advocates
Clarkson Pennington Law is a dedicated legal practice specializing in Social Security Disability advocacy across Alabama and the Southeastern United States. With over a decade of experience, our firm provides personalized legal representation to individuals facing severe health challenges that prevent them from working. We assist clients with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), family member benefits, and long-term disability insurance claims. Our team combines legal expertise with compassionate support, guiding clients through every stage of the application and appeals process.Founded by Abbey Clarkson, a seasoned attorney with a background in public administration, we prioritize client dignity and transparency. Our services extend to dependents' benefits, survivor claims, and ERISA-related cases, with offices in Birmingham, Gadsden, Montgomery, Mobile, and Chattanooga. We operate on a contingency basis, ensuring clients pay nothing until benefits are secured.
Services
SSDI Claims
SSI Applications
Family Benefits
Appeals Representation
ERISA Claims
Survivor Benefits
Dependent Claims
Long-Term Disability
Medicare Guidance
Case Consultations
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- Over a decade of experience in Social Security Disability law
- Client-centric approach with personalized case management
- Proven track record helping thousands of Alabamians
- Contingency fee structure - pay nothing until benefits are secured
- Multilingual support and regional office locations
What people say
Professional and courteous
Game-changing case status app
Helped obtain disability benefits
Down-to-earth and pleasant
Highly recommend to others
Services
SSDI Claims
We specialize in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims for individuals unable to work due to severe medical conditions. Our attorneys help clients document work history, medical evidence, and financial impact to build strong cases. With expertise in federal regulations, we represent clients throughout Alabama and the Southeast in initial applications and appeals processes.
SSI Applications
Our team assists low-income individuals with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applications. We help clients demonstrate financial need and medical eligibility while navigating strict income limits. Services include case documentation, eligibility assessments, and appeals representation for applicants across Tennessee and the Gulf Coast region.
Appeals Representation
We provide legal representation for denied disability claims, including administrative appeals and federal court litigation. Our attorneys prepare comprehensive appeal packages, gather additional medical evidence, and represent clients at hearings. With experience in ERISA regulations, we handle complex long-term disability insurance denials.
Family Benefits
Our firm helps families secure disability benefits for dependents, including children, adult children with disabilities, and surviving family members. We guide clients through eligibility requirements, document family relationships, and appeal denials for benefits related to deceased beneficiaries.
ERISA Claims
We represent clients in ERISA-governed long-term disability insurance claims. Our services include policy analysis, denial appeals, and federal litigation. With nursing expertise on staff, we ensure medical documentation meets insurance requirements while protecting clients' rights during the 180-day appeal window.
People
Abbey Clarkson
Founder & Attorney
With over 13 years of disability law experience, Abbey founded Clarkson Pennington Law to provide compassionate legal representation. She holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Alabama and a Master's in Public Administration. Specializing in SSDI and SSI claims, she personally handles complex cases and family benefit applications.
John Pennington
ERISA Attorney
A former nurse with legal expertise, John specializes in ERISA long-term disability claims. He has helped hundreds of Alabamians since 1990, combining medical knowledge with legal strategy to challenge insurance denials and secure benefits for clients across the Southeast.
Amber Holkem
Paralegal
As a key member of the legal team, Amber assists with case documentation and client communication. She works closely with attorneys to prepare disability applications, organize medical records, and support clients throughout the claims process in North Alabama and the Black Belt region.
Questions
What benefits does Social Security Disability provide?
SSDI offers monthly income assistance and Medicare access for those unable to work due to severe health conditions. SSI provides standard payments for low-income applicants.
How long does the disability application process take?
Initial decisions take 3-6 months, but Alabama averages 12 months. Appeals and hearings add significant time, with back pay awarded upon approval.
Can I work while applying for disability benefits?
Applicants must prove inability to work. Earnings above $1,550/month (2024) typically disqualify claims, though limited work may be permitted under specific conditions.
Do I need a lawyer for my disability claim?
While not required, legal representation significantly improves approval chances. Our attorneys handle documentation, appeals, and court representation at no upfront cost.
How are attorney fees structured for disability cases?
Fees come from back pay at 25% (max $7,200) if benefits are secured. No payment is required if the claim is denied at any stage.
