I learned about the difficulty in getting disability benefits when my own grandfather was injured and became unable to work when he was age 48.  Like most people in that situation he had no way to support his family and he had to fight for years to get approved. Since I opened my law office in 1978 Social Security Disability has been a part of my practice.   I meet with each new client and personally review their particular problems and explain the process to them.  I encourage clients to call with questions. I take the time to personally make sure that all important information is provided to the Social Security Administration to evaluate the claim.    The claim process from start to finish can often be long, but it should be a team effort between the client, my staff, and me.