Ames Law will analyze what needs to be proven to win benefits, figure out how to prove it, and gather the necessary evidence.
Some of the specific functions Ames Law performs are the following:
- Obtain reports from treating doctors that are consistent with regulations of the Social Security Administration & the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Refer claimants to specialists for additional reports that answer questions raised by federal government regulations
- Obtain a vocational expert's evaluation of the claimant's ability to work
- Ask that a prior application for benefits be reopened
- Seek a waiver of a time limit
- Request subpoenas to insure the presence of crucial witnesses or documents
- Advise the claimant on how best to prepare for and testify at the hearing
- Object to improper evidence or procedures at the hearing
- Cross-examine adverse witnesses
- Present a closing statement
- Submit a written summary of the evidence and argument
- If the claimant wins, make sure the federal agency correctly calculates benefits
- If the claimant loses, request review of the hearing decision by a higher authority within the federal agency or by a court