Business Details
Social Security Disability Lawyers in Philadelphia
Chermol & Fishman is a dedicated disability law firm with decades of insider experience from within the Social Security Administration (SSA). Our attorneys have worked extensively with SSA policies, including training administrative law judges and shaping national disability law strategies. We specialize in Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims, offering comprehensive support from initial applications through federal court appeals. Our team combines legal expertise with a client-focused approach, ensuring personalized guidance and meticulous attention to case details.We operate nationwide with offices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, Florida, and Kentucky, serving clients with multilingual support and a commitment to transparency. Our fee structure ensures no upfront costs, as we only collect payment upon successful case resolution. With a proven track record in complex disability cases, we advocate tirelessly to secure the benefits our clients deserve.
Services
Social Security Disability
Supplemental Security Income
Federal Court Appeals
Case Evaluation
Appeals Process
Highlights and features
- Our attorneys have insider experience working within the Social Security Administration
- We handle cases from initial applications through federal court appeals
- Multilingual staff provides accessible support for diverse clients
- No upfront fees - payment only upon successful case resolution
- Nationwide representation with local office presence in 5 states
Associations and certifications
- National Association of Social Security Claimants Representatives (NOSSCR)
- National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR)
What people say
Exceptional support
Professional expertise
Successful outcomes
Compassionate approach
Diligent representation
Services
Social Security Disability
We specialize in Social Security Disability (SSD) claims for individuals unable to work due to long-term medical conditions. Our attorneys with insider SSA experience help clients navigate the complex application process, gather medical evidence, and appeal denials. With offices in five states and nationwide representation, we provide personalized legal strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances.
Supplemental Security Income
Our firm assists clients with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applications for those with limited income and resources. We help document financial need and medical disabilities while ensuring compliance with strict SSA regulations. Our multilingual staff supports diverse clients through the paperwork-intensive process and subsequent appeals when necessary.
Federal Court Appeals
When administrative appeals fail, we pursue federal court litigation to challenge wrongful disability denials. Our attorneys with decade-plus SSA experience have successfully represented clients in federal courts nationwide, leveraging deep understanding of disability law precedents to secure favorable rulings for complex cases.
Case Evaluation
We offer free initial evaluations to assess disability claim viability. Our experts review medical documentation, work history, and financial status to determine eligibility for SSD or SSI benefits. This comprehensive analysis helps clients understand their chances of approval before beginning representation.
Appeals Process
Our firm manages all levels of disability appeals, from reconsideration through administrative law judge hearings. We prepare clients for testimony, subpoena medical records, and present compelling evidence to support continued disability status. Our success rate exceeds industry averages due to strategic case preparation.
People
David F. Chermol
Co-founding Attorney
Former Assistant Regional Counsel for SSA with 10 years of experience litigating disability cases. Trained administrative law judges and shaped national disability policies. Currently chairs Philadelphia Bar Association's Social Security Disability Committee.
Samuel Fishman
Co-founding Attorney
Handles disability, personal injury, and workers' compensation claims with multilingual staff support. Develops strategic approaches to complex disability cases requiring specialized documentation and evidence gathering.
David G. Hatfield
Attorney
Focuses on federal disability litigation with experience in appellate strategies and case law analysis. Represents clients in complex SSD and SSI disputes requiring legal precedent interpretation.
Teri C. Smith-Jones
Attorney
Specializes in disability claims involving mental health conditions and chronic illnesses. Provides compassionate representation while maintaining rigorous legal standards for evidence submission.
Kelly C. Connelly
Attorney
Handles initial disability applications and appeals with focus on medical documentation requirements. Guides clients through SSA's complex administrative processes while ensuring compliance with filing deadlines.
Questions
Why should I hire Chermol & Fishman for my disability case?
Our attorneys have insider experience working within the Social Security Administration, including training administrative law judges. We handle cases from initial applications through federal court appeals with a proven success record.
What are your attorney fees for disability representation?
We charge 25% of past-due benefits (capped at $7,200) only if we win your case. There are no upfront fees or out-of-pocket costs for our services.
What does Social Security consider a disability?
SSA requires medical conditions that prevent full-time work for at least 12 months or result in death. We help document how your condition meets these strict eligibility requirements.
Can I apply for disability benefits while working?
Full-time work typically disqualifies claims. Part-time work with limited earnings may still allow eligibility. Our attorneys can assess your specific employment situation during a free consultation.
How long does the disability application process take?
Initial decisions take 2-6 months. Appeals and federal court cases may extend this timeline. We expedite processes through proper documentation and legal strategies to minimize delays.
Do you handle cases outside Pennsylvania?
We represent clients nationwide with offices in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, Florida, and Kentucky. Our federal court practice handles appeals from all states and territories.
