Social Security Disability Claims and Appeals Attorneys
Compassionate legal counsel for claims, denials, and hearings
Social Security Disability
Lawyers in Pasadena
When a serious illness or injury prevents you from working, Social Security Disability benefits can provide crucial financial support for you and your family.
But navigating the Social Security Administration's complex application process is overwhelming—especially when you're already dealing with medical treatments, pain, and financial stress.
Potter Padilla & Pfau has won claims for thousands of people, from California to Carolina.
Our experienced social security disability attorneys understand how to build strong cases, gather compelling medical evidence, and guide you through every step—from your initial application to appeals and hearings.
Understanding Social Security Disability Programs
The Social Security Administration offers disability benefits through two programs: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for individuals with sufficient work history, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for those with limited income and resources. Learn more about the difference between SSI and SSDI.
To qualify, your medical condition must prevent you from performing substantial work for at least 12 consecutive months or be expected to result in death. Common qualifying conditions include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders – Back injuries, joint problems, arthritis, spine conditions
- Cardiovascular conditions – Heart disease, chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease
- Mental health disorders – Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia
- Neurological conditions – Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy
- Cancer – All types during treatment and recovery
- Respiratory illnesses – COPD, chronic asthma, pulmonary fibrosis
- Autoimmune disorders – Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease
Even if your condition isn't listed, you may still qualify if it's equally severe.
Why Disability Claims Are Often Denied
The Social Security Administration denies the majority of initial disability applications—often due to incomplete medical documentation, missed deadlines, or technical errors that have nothing to do with the severity of your condition.
Understanding what evidence the SSA requires, how to document your functional limitations properly, and when to appeal a denial can determine whether you receive benefits or face years of financial hardship while fighting the system.
If your claim has already been denied, don't give up— request a consultation and we'll review your options.
Helpful ResourceWondering what your monthly benefit might be? The Social Security Administration offers a free Benefits Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — but only under specific limits. Social Security allows limited work activity, known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
If you earn more than the SGA limit, Social Security may decide that you’re able to work and deny your claim.
However, some people qualify even while working part-time, especially if their earnings are low or their job requires special accommodations.
What matters most is whether your medical condition prevents you from performing consistent, competitive work. Each case is evaluated individually based on your condition, earnings, and work limitations.
Medical records alone aren’t always enough. Social Security focuses on how your condition limits your ability to function, not just your diagnosis.
Claims are often denied when records don’t clearly explain work-related limitations, when treatment history appears inconsistent, or when doctors haven’t documented restrictions like standing, walking, concentrating, or lifting.
This is why detailed, well-organized medical evidence that explains daily limitations is critical to a successful claim.
Social Security looks at more than just your diagnosis.
They evaluate: your medical condition and symptoms; how long your condition is expected to last; your ability to perform past work; whether you can adjust to other types of work. Factors such as age, education, job history, and transferable skills all play a role.
Two people with the same condition may receive different outcomes depending on how these factors apply to their individual situations.
If you have more questions, get in touch today — we're here to help.