Business Details
Trusted Social Security Disability Lawyers in Illinois
The Good Law Group has dedicated over three decades to advocating for individuals seeking Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Our practice focuses exclusively on disability law, with a team of attorneys who have collectively handled thousands of cases nationwide, including federal appeals. We combine the resources of a large firm with the personalized attention of a boutique practice, ensuring each client receives tailored guidance through the complex SSD/SSI application and appeals process.Our attorneys, including Neil H. Good and Shawn M. Good, are recognized for their expertise in cross-examining medical experts and navigating all levels of the Social Security Administration's review system. We operate on a contingency basis, charging no fees unless we secure benefits for our clients.
Services
SSD Applications
SSI Claims
Reconsideration Appeals
Hearing Representation
Federal Court Appeals
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in Social Security Disability law
- Our attorneys handle cases at all levels including federal court appeals
- We offer free case evaluations with no upfront costs
- Our team has secured benefits for over 4,000 satisfied clients
- We provide personalized service with nationwide reach and local expertise
What people say
Compassionate and caring
Highly experienced attorneys
Successful case outcomes
Professional and detailed
Stress-free process
Services
SSD Applications
Our attorneys specialize in preparing and submitting Social Security Disability applications with comprehensive medical documentation to maximize approval chances. We help clients meet strict eligibility requirements by documenting total disabilities lasting 12+ months that prevent substantial gainful activity. Our team ensures accurate work history reporting and proper medical evidence submission to avoid common pitfalls that cause initial denials.
Hearing Representation
We represent clients during Social Security Disability hearings before Administrative Law Judges. Our attorneys prepare clients for informal proceedings, handle vocational expert cross-examinations, and present compelling evidence demonstrating disability. With 53% of initial applications denied nationally, our experienced advocacy significantly improves approval odds during this critical stage of the appeals process.
Federal Appeals
When cases reach federal court, our attorneys file complaints against the Social Security Commissioner to challenge incorrect denials. We leverage over 30 years of combined experience to present legal arguments before district court judges, with 81% of federal appeals resulting in favorable outcomes. This final stage of appeals often secures benefits after multiple administrative denials.
SSI Claims
We assist low-income individuals with limited resources in securing Supplemental Security Income benefits. Our team verifies financial eligibility, documents medical conditions meeting SSA criteria, and ensures compliance with strict income and asset limits. We help clients navigate the unique requirements for SSI payments while coordinating with other disability programs.
Reconsideration Appeals
After initial denials, we file reconsideration requests with new medical evidence to challenge SSA decisions. Our attorneys identify errors in original evaluations, submit additional documentation from treating physicians, and ensure compliance with 60-day appeal deadlines. While only 10-15% of reconsideration appeals succeed, our strategic approach maximizes chances for approval at this stage.
People
Neil H. Good
Attorney
With over 30 years of experience, Neil H. Good specializes in Social Security Disability law, having represented over 4,000 clients nationwide. He transitioned from personal injury litigation to focus exclusively on disability cases in 2000, developing expertise in cross-examining medical experts and handling complex appeals.
Shawn M. Good
Attorney
Shawn M. Good brings extensive litigation experience to disability cases, having argued multiple appeals in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. He specializes in identifying critical medical details that strengthen clients' claims, with a focus on ensuring accurate representation during hearings and appeals.
Ross Good
Attorney
Ross Good contributes his complex litigation expertise to disability cases, having led class action lawsuits with settlements exceeding $20 million. His background in factual research and case development strengthens our ability to handle intricate disability claims with multiple legal challenges.
Ashley Hampton
Associate Paralegal
Ashley Hampton manages case scheduling and client communications while coordinating medical record requests. She plays a crucial role in maintaining case organization and ensuring timely preparation for hearings and appointments.
Kathryn Weine
Associate Paralegal
Kathryn Weine handles medical record requests and case research while supporting office operations. Her paralegal training and attention to detail ensure accurate documentation and efficient case management for our disability clients.
Questions
Can I speed up the Social Security claims process?
The only way to expedite claims is by submitting complete applications with all required documentation. Dire need requests may accelerate hearing dates in urgent situations like housing or food insecurity.
Does any illness automatically qualify for disability benefits?
No condition automatically qualifies. The SSA evaluates whether your medical condition prevents substantial gainful activity (earning over $1,000/month) for at least 12 months.
What should I do if my SS benefits are denied?
File a request for reconsideration within 60 days, then request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. Most approvals occur at the hearing stage with proper legal representation.
Is it harder to get disability for mental conditions?
The SSA evaluates mental and physical conditions equally based on severity. Mental impairments require documentation from licensed professionals showing complete inability to work.
What are Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits?
SGA is currently $1,000/month. Earning above this amount disqualifies you from benefits, but earning below it doesn't automatically qualify you for disability payments.
What does Social Security consider a disability?
A medical condition preventing substantial gainful activity for 12+ months or expected to result in death. The SSA requires documented limitations affecting your ability to perform past work or other jobs.
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