Business Details
35 Years
experience
Social Security Disability Lawyer in Saco, ME
The Gordon Gates - Social Security Attorney has been dedicated to advocating for individuals seeking Social Security Disability benefits since 1991. Our practice focuses exclusively on navigating the complexities of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims for clients across Maine, New Hampshire, and nationwide. With decades of experience, we guide clients through every stage of the disability process, from initial applications to appeals and administrative law judge hearings. Our team prioritizes personalized support, ensuring clients understand their rights and options while handling the legal intricacies on their behalf.We operate on a contingency basis, charging no fees unless benefits are secured, and offer free claim evaluations to assess eligibility. Our deep familiarity with regional Social Security judges and procedures enhances our ability to secure favorable outcomes. By combining legal expertise with compassionate representation, we aim to alleviate the stress of the disability process for our clients.
Services
SSDI Claims
SSI Applications
Appeals Representation
Hearing Preparation
Free Claim Evaluation
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in Social Security disability law.
- Our contingency fee model ensures no upfront costs for clients.
- We provide personalized support throughout the entire claims process.
- Our team has extensive familiarity with regional Social Security judges.
- We offer free claim evaluations to assess eligibility and strategy.
What people say
Highly qualified professionals
Compassionate and responsive
Secured benefits without hearings
Expertise in disability law
Personalized case handling
Services
SSDI Claims
We assist clients in filing initial SSDI claims based on medical conditions preventing employment. Our process includes gathering medical evidence, completing documentation, and ensuring compliance with Social Security Administration requirements. Our experience streamlines applications to improve approval odds.
SSI Applications
Our team guides clients through SSI applications for low-income individuals with disabilities. We clarify eligibility criteria, help compile financial records, and advocate for fair evaluations. This service ensures applicants understand program requirements and avoid common pitfalls.
Appeals Representation
When claims are denied, we prepare comprehensive appeals. This includes submitting new evidence, drafting legal arguments, and representing clients before Disability Determination Services. Our track record demonstrates success in overturning initial denials through strategic reconsideration processes.
Hearing Preparation
We prepare clients for administrative law judge hearings by reviewing case details, anticipating questions, and developing persuasive arguments. Our preparation includes submitting hearing briefs outlining medical evidence and legal theories to support disability claims.
Age 55+ Claims
We specialize in claims for individuals aged 55 and older, leveraging Social Security's medical-vocational guidelines. Our approach emphasizes age-related work limitations and transition challenges to strengthen cases for clients facing career-ending disabilities later in life.
People
Gordon Gates
Attorney
Gordon Gates is a Social Security disability lawyer with over 30 years of experience. Admitted to practice in Maine since 1991, he focuses exclusively on disability claims and has represented clients nationwide. He graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University Law School and authors a nationally-read legal blog on disability law.
Questions
What types of Social Security disability cases do you handle?
We handle SSDI and SSI claims for physical and mental disabilities preventing employment, including appeals and administrative law judge hearings across all states.
How much do your services cost?
We work on a contingency basis - no fees unless you receive benefits. Our fee is a percentage of past-due benefits awarded by Social Security.
What happens during a disability hearing?
The judge reviews medical evidence, hears your testimony, and may consult medical or vocational experts. We submit written briefs and present arguments supporting your claim.
How can I improve my disability claim's chances?
Maintain consistent medical treatment records, follow doctors' recommendations, and work with an experienced attorney to present comprehensive evidence demonstrating your limitations.
Can I apply for disability if I'm over 55?
Yes. Social Security provides special considerations for applicants over 55, particularly when physical limitations prevent past work and job retraining is impractical.
