Hello Folks,

I am not sure if I am allowed to post this here as it is not related to the hobby but here goes.

I need a referral for an attorney who is familiar with disability rights laws.  My son who is autistic was denied SSI.  They said he is smart enough to get a job earning at least 800 a month.  I dont know if any is aware of this but you cant live on that in California.  

I need help filing a response and inquire with the SSI.  If anyone knows an attorney that is familiar with this I would very much appreciate the referral.  This is somewhat time sensitive so give me a shout.

Juliet = [email protected]

Suggest you check with the State Bar for the State in question and ask for referrals.  It's only a phone call away.

First,
educate yourself.

1)You do not state that you have used the SSA website.  While government sites often have general summaries to help citizens, looking at (and probably printing) relevant "forms and publications" is a good idea.
Link:
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/index.html

2) You do not state that you read my recent post below with general legal suggestions, so I'll repeat part here (but I suggest you look for that post below):
Nolo Press is the best source I know for legal materials written so non-attorneys can understand the law.

They publish a book (also downloadable, but I recommend buying the book) on Social Security Disability.  They are in Berkeley.  Call them and ask who near you sells that publication or if you are close, drive to their office.

Nolo's Outlet Bookstore
950 Parker St
Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone +1-510-704-2248

There is less free information on their site than there used to be and I can no longer find detailed info on disability, but you might want to spend more time looking.  Here is the link to the disability book (has CD included):

http://www.nolo.com/products/nolos-guide-to-social-security-disability-QSS.html

Second:
Always check for your local bar association's lawyer referral service.

Here is San Francisco's:
http://www.sfbar.org/lawyerreferrals/index.aspx

You will receive 30 minutes of a lawyer's time by paying the $25 administrative fee.  Use your time wisely by typing up a summary of your situation.  If it is more than a page or two, get it to the attorney at least a day before your appointment.

Third (but in your case I suggest you do this 1st):
Call the office of your Congressman/Congresswoman.
They all have at least one "case worker" who handles constituent problems with the federal government.  Tell them you have a social security disability problem.

Find your elected House member by going to their site and typing in your zip code in the upper left corner of the page:
http://house.gov/

Good luck.  I have a request of you:
For the benefit of TER members, please put a post on this board about your what advice proved to be beneficial.