SSDI & SSI Claims for Albemarle County Residents
Charlottesville Social Security Disability Lawyers
Serving Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and the surrounding Central Virginia. Free consultation — no fee unless we win.
Free Consultation: (434) 979-6123Charlottesville Office
1807 Seminole Trail, Suite 106, Charlottesville, VA 22901
(434) 979-6123Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a lengthy and often frustrating process. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies the majority of initial applications — even many that are ultimately approved on appeal. For residents of Charlottesville and Albemarle County who are unable to work due to a serious medical condition, having an attorney guide you through the process can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Ritchie Law Firm has represented Social Security disability claimants throughout Central Virginia for decades. Our attorneys know what the SSA looks for, how to build a compelling medical record, and how to present your case effectively at every stage of the process.
Understanding SSDI vs. SSI
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to workers who have accumulated sufficient work credits through their employment history and are now unable to work due to a qualifying disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program available to disabled individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Many claimants in Albemarle County apply for both programs simultaneously.
The SSA Disability Determination Process
The SSA uses a five-step sequential evaluation process to determine whether a claimant is disabled. The agency considers whether you are working, the severity of your medical condition, whether your condition meets or equals a listed impairment, whether you can perform your past work, and whether you can perform any other work in the national economy given your age, education, and work experience.
The medical evidence in your file is the foundation of your claim. Our attorneys work with you and your treating physicians to ensure your medical records accurately document the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work.
What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied
An initial denial is not the end of the road. The SSA appeals process includes reconsideration, a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), review by the Appeals Council, and ultimately federal court review. The ALJ hearing is the most important stage for most claimants — it is your opportunity to present your case in person and have an attorney advocate on your behalf.
Our attorneys represent Charlottesville area claimants at all stages of the appeals process, including ALJ hearings at the Virginia hearing offices.
No Fee Unless You Win
Social Security disability attorneys are paid on a contingency basis regulated by federal law. If we win your case, our fee is limited to 25% of your back pay award, up to a maximum set by the SSA. If you do not win, you owe no attorney fee. There is no financial risk in having our attorneys represent you.
Why Choose Ritchie Law Firm?
- ✓50+ years serving Virginia and West Virginia
- ✓We only represent injured individuals — never insurers
- ✓Free consultations, contingency fee — no upfront cost
- ✓Hundreds of cases tried in Virginia courts
- ✓$50M+ recovered for clients since 2010
Free Case Review
Charlottesville Office
1807 Seminole Trail, Suite 106, Charlottesville, VA 22901(434) 979-6123Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
50+
Years Serving Virginia
175+
Years Combined Experience
$50M+
Won Since 2010
250+
5-Star Google Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Our Charlottesville Office Today
Call us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We serve clients throughout Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and the surrounding region.
(434) 979-6123