What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?

SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security contributions, while SSI is based on financial need and does not require prior work credits. Some applicants qualify for both programs, and an attorney can evaluate which apply to your situation.

Can a Social Security Attorney Help if My Claim Was Already Denied?

Yes. The SSA's appeals process includes reconsideration, an ALJ hearing, Appeals Council review, and federal court. Acting quickly is important because each stage carries a 60-day deadline from the date of denial notice. A Social Security attorney in Detroit, MI, can help you meet those deadlines and build the strongest possible record at each stage.

How Long Does a Social Security Disability Claim Take in Michigan?

Initial decisions typically take several months, and claims that proceed to an ALJ hearing can take a year or longer. Avoiding application errors and gaps in medical documentation early may reduce unnecessary delays.

Does Gordon & Pont PC Charge a Fee if I Lose?

No. Gordon & Pont PC handles Social Security disability cases on a contingency basis. Contact the office for information about how fees are structured under SSA rules.

What Medical Evidence Does the SSA Require?

The SSA typically requires treating physician records, mental health records if applicable, hospital and imaging documentation, and a residual functional capacity assessment from your doctor. Consistent records that clearly show your condition prevents substantial work activity are often the deciding factor.

Social Security Attorney in Detroit, MI

REQUEST A CONSULT

Gordon & Pont PC, serving Detroit, MI, has been Michigan's premier disability rights law firm since 1958. If a disabling condition has left you unable to work, you may need a Social Security attorney in Detroit, MI, who can guide you through one of the most document-intensive processes in federal law. At Gordon & Pont PC, consultations are free, and the firm charges no fee unless you win. Call (248) 395-4100 today to speak with an attorney about your claim.

What a Social Security Attorney Does for Your Claim

A Social Security attorney in Detroit, MI, handles the legal and procedural heavy lifting so you can focus on your health. Many Detroit-area residents apply for SSDI or SSI without legal help and face denial at the first stage. An attorney gathers and organizes the medical evidence the SSA requires, identifies gaps in documentation before submission, and ensures deadlines are never missed.

Attorney Lloyd Pont brings that disciplined approach to every case. He graduated from Boston University School of Law and is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The firm has earned over 100 five-star reviews on Avvo and Google, with clients citing clear communication, fast approvals, and outcomes won without a hearing.

When the SSA denies a claim, claimants have only 60 days to file a request for reconsideration. Missing that window can restart the entire process. Retaining experienced counsel early protects those deadlines and keeps options open at every stage.

SSDI vs. SSI: Which Program Applies to You?

SSDI is tied to your work history. To qualify, you generally need enough work credits earned through Social Security-covered employment, plus a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Monthly benefits are based on your prior earnings record.

SSI does not require a work history. It is based on financial need, with income and asset limits set by the SSA. Some applicants may qualify for both programs simultaneously. A Social Security benefits attorney in Detroit, MI, can review your work record, income, and medical condition to determine which programs apply and whether a concurrent filing makes sense.

How the Appeals Process Works for Detroit Claimants

A denial is not the end of your claim. The SSA's four-stage appeals process offers multiple opportunities to reverse an unfavorable decision. For a detailed breakdown, see the firm's SSA appeal process guide.

Request for Reconsideration: A different SSA examiner reviews your file. Approval rates at this stage are low, making strong medical evidence critical.
ALJ Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you may request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Roughly half of unfavorable rulings can be overturned at this stage with proper legal representation.
Appeals Council Review: The Appeals Council may review for legal errors, remand the case, or overturn the decision.
Federal Court: If all administrative options are exhausted, a petition to the U.S. District Court remains available.

Gordon & Pont PC represents clients throughout this process, from initial filings through federal court if necessary.

Why Detroit-Area Residents Choose Gordon & Pont PC

When you are searching for a Social Security benefits attorney in Detroit, MI, experience and local knowledge matter. Gordon & Pont PC has more than six decades of experience representing claimants across Wayne County and throughout southeastern Michigan. The firm serves clients in Detroit and surrounding communities including Dearborn, Highland Park, and Hamtramck, from its Southfield office.

Clients pay no fee unless the firm wins their case. The SSA reports that claimants with attorney representation tend to fare better at ALJ hearings, and Gordon & Pont PC's track record across thousands of Michigan cases reflects that pattern. The firm handles new applications, reconsiderations, ALJ hearings, Appeals Council reviews, and federal court matters. For additional information, visit the firm's Social Security disability page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security contributions, while SSI is based on financial need and does not require prior work credits. Some applicants qualify for both programs, and an attorney can evaluate which apply to your situation.
Can a Social Security Attorney Help if My Claim Was Already Denied?
Yes. The SSA's appeals process includes reconsideration, an ALJ hearing, Appeals Council review, and federal court. Acting quickly is important because each stage carries a 60-day deadline from the date of denial notice. A Social Security attorney in Detroit, MI, can help you meet those deadlines and build the strongest possible record at each stage.
How Long Does a Social Security Disability Claim Take in Michigan?
Initial decisions typically take several months, and claims that proceed to an ALJ hearing can take a year or longer. Avoiding application errors and gaps in medical documentation early may reduce unnecessary delays.
Does Gordon & Pont PC Charge a Fee if I Lose?
No. Gordon & Pont PC handles Social Security disability cases on a contingency basis. Contact the office for information about how fees are structured under SSA rules.
What Medical Evidence Does the SSA Require?
The SSA typically requires treating physician records, mental health records if applicable, hospital and imaging documentation, and a residual functional capacity assessment from your doctor. Consistent records that clearly show your condition prevents substantial work activity are often the deciding factor.

Speak With a Social Security Attorney Serving Detroit, MI

A disability that prevents you from working can upend your finances quickly. If you need a Social Security attorney in Detroit, MI, Gordon & Pont PC has served the Detroit metro area since 1958, offering free consultations and contingency-based representation. The firm's Southfield office is located at 29566 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 130, Southfield, MI 48034. Call (248) 395-4100 or toll-free at 1-800-LAW-MICH to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward securing the benefits you may be entitled to.