Addressing Expert Testimony in a Social Security Administrative Hearing

This program is designed for attorneys new to the practice of Social Security, as well as beginner and intermediate practitioners looking to deepen their approach to cross-examining medical and vocational experts.

The program, taught by experienced disability attorneys Nicole Thompson and Matthew Cantwell, will begin by reviewing the basic analysis of a disability claim before going in-depth into the issues that arise when vocational and medical testimony is brought into the case. The presenters will identify the steps attorneys should take to prepare the file prior to the administrative hearing, and how to prepare the client to face medical and vocational experts during an administrative hearing. In addition, the course will cover topics such as past relevant work analysis, composite jobs, the grid rules, cross-examination of expert witnesses, and evidence submission.

Learning Objectives:

1. Review the five-step analysis of an SSD/SSI claim
2. Prepare your file and client for a hearing
3. Conducting hearing testimony and cross-examination of experts
4. Perform necessary post-hearing follow-up to strengthen the case