When preparing to testify at your Social Security disability hearing, your Chicago Social Security attorney will advise you on what to say and what not to say. Making these mistakes could mean the difference between the judge believing your story and not believing that you qualify.

Don’t Argue Your Case

The best testimony tells a story that speaks for itself, not just starts with a conclusion. Statements like “I know I can’t work” or “I worked all my life” are overly general and matters of opinion, which are not enough to convince anyone of your story. Instead, testify with facts and specific details about your limitations and your daily activities that illustrate how your impairment impacts your life. Let the judge draw the conclusions from your testimony, instead of telling the judge what conclusion to draw.

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Judges are not impressed by claimants who think they know who should and should not be awarded benefits with statements like “I know someone who isn’t disabled at all but gets benefits.” It is not your place to argue that the system should work for you because you see it working a certain way for others. That is up to the judge.

Don’t Act Up to Garner Sympathy

While many Social Security disability cases are sad and difficult to hear, that does not mean you should act up and turn on the theatrics to play on the judge’s emotions. Social Security judges have heard all manner of disability stories and hardships, many of which are likely to be worse than yours. It is not their role to rule on emotion, but on the facts of your case.

Don’t Act Like You Deserve Benefits

Similarly, some claimants and their Chicago Social Security attorney might try to bring up their virtuous behavior and how they volunteer their time or act in selfless ways. This might be nice to hear, but they are not relevant to your disability case. Benefits are awarded to the disabled. You don’t need to state that you are a good or honest person. You can demonstrate this by telling your story truthfully.

Contact a Chicago Social Security Attorney

For more information on testifying at your disability hearing, contact a Chicago Social Security attorney today.