Business Details
35 Years
experience
Your Trusted Augusta Social Security Disability Lawyer
Stephen H. Hagler has been serving individuals and families in Georgia and South Carolina since 1991, specializing in Social Security Disability, family law, and estate planning. Our practice is built on a foundation of personalized attention, legal expertise, and a commitment to achieving results for every client. We understand the complexities of navigating Social Security Disability claims, family law disputes, and probate matters, and we work tirelessly to simplify these processes for our clients. With decades of experience, we provide strategic legal representation tailored to each clients unique circumstances. Our team prioritizes transparency, compassion, and thorough preparation, ensuring clients feel supported from the initial consultation through the resolution of their case.We offer free consultations and are willing to meet clients at their location when necessary, reflecting our dedication to accessibility and convenience. Our contingency fee structure ensures that clients only pay if we secure a favorable outcome, aligning our success with theirs. Over the years, we have earned a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and unwavering advocacy in both legal and community circles. Our focus on client education empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their legal matters. Whether handling adoption proceedings, contested divorces, or appeals for denied SSDI claims, we approach every case with the same level of care and expertise that has defined our practice since 1991.
Services
Social Security Disability Claims
Family Law Representation
Probate Administration
Estate Planning
Adoption Services
Guardianship Cases
Will Preparation
Contested Divorces
Name Changes
Contingency Legal Services
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in Social Security Disability and family law
- Our team provides personalized attention throughout the legal process
- Contingency fee structure ensures no payment unless we win your case
- Free initial consultations available for all legal matters
- We serve clients in Georgia and South Carolina with local expertise
What people say
Compassionate representation
Successful SSDI claims
Personalized attention
Local expertise
Free consultations
Services
Social Security Disability Claims
We specialize in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims, helping clients navigate complex application processes and appeals. Our team gathers medical documentation, prepares cases for hearings, and represents clients before administrative law judges. With over 30 years of experience, we focus on maximizing benefits for individuals with long-term disabilities while maintaining a contingency fee structure that ensures access to justice regardless of financial circumstances.
Family Law Representation
Our family law practice handles divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, adoption cases, and military divorce matters. We provide strategic counsel for establishing paternity, enforcing court orders, and modifying existing agreements. The firm emphasizes protecting clients' rights while minimizing emotional stress through negotiated settlements or litigation when necessary. Specialized services include step-parent adoptions and third-party custody arrangements across Georgia and South Carolina.
Probate Administration
We guide executors and beneficiaries through probate processes for wills and intestate estates, handling debt settlement, asset distribution, and court filings. Our services include creating estate plans with wills and trusts, establishing guardianships, and managing conservatorship proceedings. We help families navigate complex probate requirements while maintaining confidentiality and minimizing administrative burdens during difficult times.
Adoption Services
The firm facilitates various adoption types including step-parent, grandparent, and third-party adoptions with meticulous attention to legal requirements. We prepare necessary documentation, represent clients in court proceedings, and ensure proper termination of biological parental rights. Our experience covers complex adoption scenarios requiring specialized legal strategies while prioritizing the best interests of children involved.
Contested Divorce Cases
We represent clients in contested divorces involving property division, alimony disputes, and child support negotiations. Our approach combines aggressive advocacy with practical solutions for modifying existing orders and enforcing court decisions. We handle high-conflict cases requiring contempt proceedings while maintaining focus on clients' long-term interests and family stability.
People
Stephen H. Hagler
Attorney & Founder
Practicing law since 1991, Stephen H. Hagler specializes in Social Security Disability, family law, and probate matters. Admitted to Georgia courts and federal district court, he has represented hundreds of clients in complex legal cases. A graduate of Cumberland School of Law, he previously served on the Augusta Bar Association's Executive Committee.
Questions
How does the Social Security Administration define disability?
Disability is defined as inability to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable impairment lasting 12+ months or expected to result in death.
What are the differences between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI requires work history and tax contributions, while SSI is need-based with strict income/resource limits. Both require medical disability proof.
Can an attorney help with denied claims?
Yes, we specialize in appealing denied SSDI/SSI claims through reconsideration, hearings, and federal court litigation with contingency-based representation.
How are attorney fees structured for disability cases?
We charge 25% of past-due benefits (capped at $6,000) with no upfront fees - payment only occurs if we win your case.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations for all legal matters including SSDI claims, family law, and estate planning.
What areas do you serve?
We represent clients throughout Georgia and South Carolina with local office locations in Augusta and Waynesboro.
