Business Details
41 Years
experience
Your Social Security Disability Advocates in Albuquerque
Michael Armstrong Law has dedicated its practice to Social Security Disability claims and appeals since 1985. Our firm has successfully represented over 7,500 clients with physical and mental impairments, guiding them through complex processes including reconsideration, administrative hearings, Appeals Council reviews, and federal court litigation. We prioritize personalized legal strategies, collaborating closely with clients to gather medical evidence, prepare testimony, and navigate evolving regulations.Our team emphasizes transparency and communication, ensuring clients understand each procedural step. With decades of collective experience, we offer free initial consultations and operate on a contingency basis, charging no fees until we secure benefits for our clients.
Services
SSDI Claims
SSI Applications
Appeals Representation
Legal Consultation
Federal Court Appeals
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have 33 years of experience in Social Security Disability law
- Our firm has successfully represented over 7,500 claimants
- We work on a contingency basis with no upfront fees
- Our attorneys handle cases from initial denials to federal court
- We provide personalized legal strategies for each client
What people say
Compassionate attorneys
Successful outcomes
Expertise in appeals
Personalized approach
No upfront fees
Services
SSDI Claims
We represent clients in initial Social Security Disability Insurance applications and subsequent appeals. Our attorneys help gather medical documentation, obtain physician statements, and build compelling cases demonstrating eligibility based on work history and medical impairments. We specialize in complex cases involving physical disabilities, mental health conditions, and chronic illnesses.
SSI Applications
Our team assists with Supplemental Security Income applications for individuals with limited income and resources. We help clients navigate financial documentation requirements while demonstrating medical eligibility. We specialize in cases involving elderly applicants, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and those requiring special advocacy within the criminal justice system.
Appeals Representation
We handle all levels of Social Security appeals including reconsideration, administrative law judge hearings, Appeals Council reviews, and federal court litigation. Our attorneys prepare clients for testimony, develop evidence strategies, and challenge unfavorable decisions through formal legal processes while maintaining strict adherence to filing deadlines.
Legal Consultation
We offer free initial consultations to evaluate Social Security Disability cases. Our attorneys assess medical documentation, work history, and denial reasons to determine viable appeal strategies. We provide clear guidance about procedural requirements, potential timelines, and specific evidence needed to strengthen individual claims.
Federal Court Appeals
When necessary, we pursue federal court appeals for denied Social Security claims. Our attorneys prepare comprehensive legal briefs challenging administrative decisions, identify procedural errors, and advocate for clients before U.S. District Court judges. We maintain expertise in federal litigation procedures while continuing our contingency fee arrangement.
People
Laura J. Johnson
Managing Attorney
Laura Johnson has over 30 years of disability advocacy experience. She purchased Michael Armstrong Law in 2019 after working with the Arc's National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability. She specializes in intellectual/developmental disabilities cases and serves on the Committee on Women and the Legal Profession.
Questions
What should I do if my SSDI application was denied?
Contact our attorneys immediately. We'll review your case, identify reasons for denial, and develop an appeal strategy including gathering additional medical evidence and preparing for administrative hearings.
How is SSI different from SSDI?
SSI is need-based with income/asset limits, while SSDI requires work credits. Our attorneys help determine eligibility and pursue appeals for both programs based on your specific circumstances.
Can I apply for SSDI while receiving unemployment benefits?
Yes, but there are complexities. Our team provides guidance on managing both applications while maintaining eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits.
What happens during a Social Security administrative hearing?
Our attorneys prepare you for testimony, present medical evidence, and cross-examine vocational experts. We handle all procedural aspects while you focus on delivering clear testimony about your limitations.
How long does the SSDI appeals process take?
Timelines vary by level: reconsideration (3-5 months), ALJ hearing (12-18 months), Appeals Council (12-24 months), federal court (additional 12+ months). We work to expedite processes where possible.
Do you represent clients in federal court appeals?
Yes, we handle all levels of appeal including federal court litigation. Our attorneys have experience challenging unfavorable decisions before U.S. District Court judges while maintaining our contingency fee arrangement.
