The best thing to do is research your state to see if the County you live in has a lawyer referral service or if they have a referral from The State Bar of your state. I live in Arizona and when you access The State Bar of Arizona website you can lookup attorneys or call The Maricopa County Bar Associated and get a referral. You should check your state for the same type of services
I am new so I don't know where you are located. But, go ahead and get an attorney. My doctor told me to get one as soon as I was diagnosed. They will help with a lot of getting your paper work together. I was denied the first time, which was about 3 months, my lawyer appealed. Within 5 months after that appeal I received my disability. Don't get discouraged. If you have good support at home that will help a lot. Hope this will help in some way. Best wishes.
The old saying was that you try 3 times before they approve you. Not sure how it works now. Good luck
I too had to give up work that I really loved. I absolutely loved being a nurse, but when everyday imwas sicker than the patients we saw I knew it was time to go on disability. I was denied twice and got a lawyer and was approved the third time. Don't give up!! God Bless You!!
I also just received my denial letter. I live in a small town so I called our Social Security office. They can suggest a lawyer. They have a lawyer that works for the department. Also, goggle in your area. I was told that it takes a good year to get disability. I will be seeing my attorney with Dec. Hope this helps some. I know how frustrating this process is.