Submitted by Nody on Sat, 07/16/2011 - 07:39
I finally got my hearing before the Administrative Law judge and now I'm just waiting for a decision on my SSDI benefits. I'm fealing pretty good about it because the vocational expert the judge had testify agreed with what I was saying about my problems with working. If that's the case is the judge likely to listen to the vocational expert so that I should likely get my disability benefits? If not, does that mean if the judge says no that I'm pretty much screwed for my SSDI or is there other ways to appeal? Thanks
Vocational expert testimony
The Administrative Law Judge is pretty much free to give whatever weight she chooses to the testimony of any witness, including a vocational expert. People are people, and we all make subjective judgments regarding how we feel about the content and veracity of what witnesses have to say, even judges. It certainly is not a bad thing that the vocational expert supported your claim. It can only help, but the judge will consider all of the evidence presented at your hearing when making her decision.
As for your second question, follow this link to a discussion regarding the appeals process for Social Security Disability claims. Even if your claim is denied by the ALJ, you still have options. Good luck.