If an individual is denied disability benefits after completing the initial application steps, he or she may choose to request a disability hearing. During this hearing, an administrative law judge (ALJ) will ask questions about the claimant’s health condition, employment history, experience and skills. In most cases, the presence of a vocational expert will be requested at the disability hearing. The expected role of a disability hearing vocational expert is to present an objective expert testimony about the claimant’s ability to perform their job based on their acquired skills as well as the mental and physical demands of the specific occupation. If applicable, the vocational expert might also suggest other occupations which the claimant may be suited to perform, given their limitations and skills.
If you are a disability attorney seeking to consult with a vocational expert, Cardinal LifeCare Consulting offers impartial, fact-based vocational evaluations. Our disability hearing vocational experts are highly skilled in connecting medical evidence with economic reports in order to determine an individual’s employability.
In addition to detailed vocational evaluations, we also provide comprehensive, evidence-based life care plans. Call us at 724-487-0519 to find out more about our services.
The Purpose of a Vocational Evaluation
In preparation for a disability hearing, an attorney may choose to consult a vocational expert to complete a vocational evaluation for their client. In this report, the following questions will be answered:
- How does the individual’s condition affect their ability to function?
- How does the individual’s condition affect their ability to work?
- How does the individual’s condition affect their employability and earning capacity?
Ultimately, the purpose of a vocational evaluation is to establish and document the impact of the claimant’s disability as it relates to their ability to perform substantial gainful activity (work).
Aside from assisting attorneys involved in disability hearings, a vocational evaluation can also be a helpful supporting resource in workers compensation, product liability, medical malpractice, personal injury and wrongful termination cases.
Count On Us for Comprehensive Vocational Evaluations & Expert Witness Services
Law firms across the U.S. trust the vocational experts at Cardinal LifeCare due to our extensive experience, exceptional attention to detail and commitment to objectivity. In order to offer our services to attorneys nationwide, we offer consultations via Skype as well as in person. To request a vocational evaluation or learn more about our highly qualified disability hearing vocational experts, call us at 724-487-0519.
