Social Security Disability Legal Assistant in Knoxville, Tennessee at Garza Law Firm, PLLC

The Social Security Disability (SSD) Legal Assistant is responsible for evaluating incoming cases to assess their viability for representation. This role involves a thorough client education on SSD process, gathering detailed client information, assessing claim strength, confirming eligibility, and identifying potential issues that may impact case outcomes.

The SSD Legal Assistant does not have the authority to practice law, give legal advice, or set strategy on a pre-case/per-client basis.

Responsibilities

• Client Intake and Education: Conduct initial interviews to gather detailed information about the client’s medical conditions, treatment history, work background, and prior Social Security filings. Explain the SSD process, including timelines, appeal stages, and expectations.
• Documentation and Eligibility: Assist clients in completing necessary paperwork, such as representation and intake forms. Confirm technical eligibility for SSDI and SSI by evaluating insured status, work credits, income, and resource limits.
• Case Evaluation: Assess the strength of each claim by analyzing the severity and duration of conditions, functional limitations, and consistency of medical treatment. Identify potential red flags like lack of treatment, substance use issues, or insufficient documentation.
• Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with SSD attorneys to review complex or borderline cases for representation decisions and communicate case status and next steps clearly and professionally to clients, ensuring they understand their responsibilities.

Work Experience

Required:

• Proficient with Microsoft 365 Suite Applications, including but not limited to, Outlook, Word, and Teams.
• Verbal and Written Communication Skills.
• Organizational Skills.

Preferred:

• Experience with Case File Management such as Filevine.
• Experience with lead generation systems such as Lead Docket.
• Experience in Customer Service via in-person and over the phone, while monitoring and diffusing escalated issues.
• Experience talking on the phone regularly and corresponding through email with a professional and confident tone.

Education / Certifications / Other Qualifications / Success Traits

Required:

• Must have a High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• Ensure Accountability: Willingness to take responsibility for work product and the performance of the firm. Own commitments and show a willingness to answer for actions without being defensive or shifting blame.
• Client Focus: Intentionally seek to understand Client needs. Proactively identify opportunities to serve or create a benefit for the Client. Look to exceed Client expectations by creating delight. Establish and maintain effective Client relationships.
• Situational Adaptability: Rebound from setbacks vs. emotionally responding with drama. Demonstrate confidence under pressure. Handle or manage change or crises effectively. Maintain a positive attitude despite adversity. Grow from hardships and negative experiences.
• Action Oriented: Embrace challenges and take action, without unnecessary delay. Identify and seize new opportunities. Display a can-do attitude in good and bad times. Step up to handle tough issues without avoidance.

Preferred:

• Secondary education, bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.