Unlock the Secrets of Social Security Law: An Inside Look at a Career as a Social Security Attorney

Are you interested in a career in Social Security law? This fascinating field of law offers attorneys the chance to work on unique cases, make a difference for clients, and gain specialized knowledge on how the Social Security system works. As an attorney specializing in this area of law, you will have the opportunity to develop expertise in areas such as disability claims and appeals, wage garnishments, and retirement benefits. Unlocking the secrets of Social Security law can open doors to help countless people access their benefits while providing lawyers with stimulating legal challenges. Read on to learn more about what pursuing a career as a social security attorney entails - from educational requirements to job duties - so that you can decide if this may be your ideal path forward. For an in-depth overview of how to navigate your legal career from law school through lateral transitions, see The Complete Attorney Career Guide: Navigating Legal Career Paths, Bar Admissions, and Lateral Moves.
 

What Is Social Security Law?

Social security law is the area of law that governs the provision of social security benefits to individuals. Social security benefits can include payments such as unemployment benefits, workers' compensation, social security disability benefits, and Medicare and Medicaid. Social security law aims to provide a safety net for individuals who cannot work due to illness or injury or who have lost their jobs. For clarity on how social security attorneys fit into the wider legal job structure, explore Understanding Legal Job Titles: A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating Legal Careers Across Multiple Industries.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for administering the social security program in the United States. The SSA administers several social security programs, including the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. The SSDI program benefits individuals who have worked in the past, paid into the social security system, and cannot work due to a disability. The SSI program provides benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to age or disability and who do not have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. If you’re still considering whether a career in law aligns with your personal strengths and interests, read Signs That Law May Be a Good Fit for You: Self-Assessment Guide.
 

What Are the Educational Requirements for Social Security Attorneys?

The educational requirements for social security attorneys are quite rigorous. Generally, to practice social security law, an attorney must have completed a three-year law degree, passed the bar exam in at least one jurisdiction, and have at least two years of experience practicing law.


However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, an attorney who has passed the bar in a foreign country may be able to practice social security law in the United States if they meet certain other requirements. Additionally, an attorney who has passed the social security administration's special exam may be able to represent clients before the Social Security Administration even if they do not meet the usual requirements. For guidance on setting actionable, measurable goals during your legal training and career planning, explore How SMART Goals Can Accelerate Your Legal Career: A Guide for Attorneys and Law Students.
 

What Are the Job Duties of a Social Security Attorney?

A social security attorney is a legal professional who helps people apply for and receive social security benefits. They can help with applications for retirement benefits, disability benefits, and survivors' benefits. Social security attorneys can also represent clients in appeals if their applications are denied. To compare earning potential across various legal practice areas, read The Highest-Paid Attorney Jobs: A Complete Guide to Maximum Legal Earnings in 2025.

A Social Security Disability attorney will communicate with the Social Security Administration and the treating physicians to help support their client's claim. They will also prepare and file the initial application process, review medical records, submit evidence for reconsideration or appeals, represent their client in a hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ), and negotiate settlements. A reasonable Social Security Disability attorney knows how to build a compelling claim from start to finish. The attorney will ask questions about the client's condition, provide advice on navigating the system, explain legal procedures, and provide support throughout the process. The attorney will also ensure that all deadlines are met and that their client is treated fairly by the Social Security Administration. For practical guidance on building a sustainable and fulfilling legal career, see Best Legal Career Advice To Build And Maintain a Successful Legal Career.

An attorney specializing in social security has the following responsibilities:
 

Evaluating eligibility for disability benefits

• A social security attorney's primary responsibility is to evaluate a client's eligibility for disability benefits. This involves reviewing the client's medical records, employment history, and other relevant documentation. The attorney will use this information to determine whether the client meets the SSA's definition of disability and is eligible for benefits.

Filing a disability claim

• If a social security attorney determines that a client is likely eligible for disability benefits, they will help the client file a claim with the SSA. This involves preparing and submitting the necessary paperwork and providing supporting documentation to show that the client meets the SSA's definition of disability.

Representing clients at disability hearings

• If a claim for disability benefits is denied, a social security attorney may represent the client at a disability hearing. This is a formal process in which the client can present their case to an administrative law judge. The attorney will work with the client to prepare for the hearing and persuasively present the case, highlighting the client's medical condition and how it affects their ability to work.

Appealing denied claims

• If a claim for disability benefits is denied after a hearing, a social security attorney may help the client appeal the decision. This involves preparing and submitting a request to review the decision and any additional documentation that may be required.

Advising clients on their rights and options

• A social security attorney will advise clients on their legal rights and options. This may include explaining the appeal process and the likelihood of success, as well as advising clients on how to manage their disability benefits once they are approved.

Negotiating settlements

• In some cases, a social security attorney may negotiate a settlement on behalf of a client. This may involve reaching an agreement with the SSA to provide disability benefits in exchange for the client dropping their appeal or claim.

Advocating for clients

• In addition to representing clients in the legal process, a social security attorney may also advocate for their clients in other ways. This may involve working with medical providers to ensure that clients receive the necessary treatment for their disability or advocating for clients to receive accommodations in the workplace.

 

What Are the Benefits of a Career in Social Security Law?

There are many benefits to a career in social security law. One of the most rewarding aspects is helping struggling people get back on their feet. Social security lawyers can make a real difference in people's lives, which is truly fulfilling. For insight into maintaining passion and longevity in your legal journey, read Keys to a Lasting Legal Career: Essential Strategies for Long-Term Success.

Another benefit of this career is the variety of cases you will encounter. Every case is unique, and you never know what you will deal with from one day to the next. This keeps things interesting and prevents boredom from setting in.

Additionally, social security law is a rapidly growing field. As the population ages, there will be an increasing demand for social security attorneys. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for advancement and growth potential. For expert answers to common career questions faced by new and experienced attorneys alike, explore Legal Career FAQs: Expert Answers to Succeed in Today’s Legal Job Market.
 

How To Become a Social Security Attorney?

To become a social security attorney, one must attend law school and pass the bar exam. After meeting those requirements, one can apply to be a social security lawyer. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will review the application and determine if the lawyer is qualified to represent claimants before the agency.

The SSA only allows a certain number of lawyers to represent claimants before the agency. Therefore, only some people who meet the qualifications will be accepted. Lawyers who are accepted must complete training provided by the SSA. This training includes how to complete disability applications properly and how to represent claimants at hearings.

Social security attorneys must understand the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. They must also be able to properly advise their clients on their rights and responsibilities.

Representing claimants before the SSA can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Those who are interested in becoming a social security attorney should be prepared to work hard and learn about the complex laws that govern these programs. For practical steps to move upward within the legal profession, see Navigating the Legal Ladder: Practical Insights and Strategies for Attorney Career Growth.
 

Conclusion

A career in social security law can be very rewarding. As an attorney, you will help people unable to work due to a disability obtain the benefits they need to live their lives. You will also learn about various legal topics and build your law knowledge. If you are interested in helping others and want to make a difference in their lives, then a career in social security law may be right for you. To see how expert recruiters help attorneys find their ideal roles across all practice areas, read Unleashing the Power of BCG Attorney Search: How We Transform Legal Careers.