Business Details
Social Security Disability Advocates in Knoxville
Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC brings over 100 years of combined legal experience advocating for individuals with disabilities. Founded by Emma Drozdowski Webb, a Certified Disability Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, the firm specializes in Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims. Our attorneys, including nationally recognized advocate Jeffrey Rabin, provide personalized representation through every stage of the claims process, from initial applications to federal court appeals. We operate on a contingency basis with no upfront fees, ensuring accessibility for clients facing financial hardship.Our team maintains deep expertise in navigating the Social Security Administration's complex requirements, including medical documentation evaluation, vocational assessments, and appeals processes. We serve clients across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina with offices in Knoxville, emphasizing face-to-face consultations and local medical provider networks. Our practice philosophy combines aggressive legal advocacy with compassionate client support, demonstrated through community involvement and professional recognition in disability law.
Services
SSDI Claims
SSI Applications
Disability Appeals
Medical Documentation Review
Vocational Evaluations
Highlights and features
- Over 100 years combined experience in Social Security advocacy
- No money upfront and no hourly fees
- Certified Disability Specialist by National Board of Trial Advocacy
- Local Knoxville office with regional service areas
- Personalized case management from initial filing to appeals
Associations and certifications
- National Board of Trial Advocacy
What people say
Hard work and dedication
Terrific attorney
Knowledge and professionalism
BEST team
In good hands
Services
SSDI Claims
We specialize in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims for individuals unable to work due to physical or mental impairments. Our attorneys help clients meet SSA's strict eligibility requirements by preparing comprehensive applications with proper medical documentation. We represent clients throughout East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, handling all aspects of the claims process from initial filing to federal court appeals.
SSI Applications
Our team assists low-income individuals with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applications, focusing on financial eligibility requirements and medical documentation. We help clients navigate asset limits and prove disability status according to SSA guidelines. Our services include case evaluation, document preparation, and representation during administrative hearings when necessary.
Disability Appeals
We provide specialized representation for denied disability claims, including reconsideration requests and Administrative Law Judge hearings. Our attorneys analyze denial reasons, strengthen medical evidence, and prepare clients for testimony. With extensive experience in appeals processes, we maximize chances of successful outcomes for both SSDI and SSI claimants.
Medical Documentation Review
Our firm offers comprehensive review of medical records to determine disability claim strength. We identify documentation gaps, coordinate with healthcare providers, and ensure compliance with SSA's Blue Book listings. This service helps clients understand their eligibility before formal application submission, improving approval chances.
Vocational Evaluations
We conduct detailed vocational assessments to demonstrate how disabilities prevent substantial gainful activity. Our analysis considers work history, transferable skills, and functional limitations. This service helps prove inability to perform past work or transition to new employment, crucial for meeting SSA's disability definition.
People
Emma Drozdowski Webb
Managing Attorney
Certified Disability Specialist with 15+ years of SSD advocacy experience. Graduated from Tulane University and Loyola University Chicago College of Law. Recognized as Top Attorney in Social Security Disability law by Knoxville Bar Association. Active in Knoxville Rotary Club and community organizations.
Jeffrey A. Rabin
Attorney at Law
Nationally recognized SSD attorney with 40+ years of experience since 1980. Former chairperson of Chicago Bar Association Social Security Disability committee. Appointed to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Chronic Fatigue Syndrome committee. Serves as NAMI DuPage chapter board chair.
Questions
What types of disabilities qualify for SSD benefits?
Physical impairments like musculoskeletal disorders, mental conditions such as depression, and chronic illnesses including fibromyalgia and diabetes may qualify. The SSA evaluates severity against its Blue Book listings.
How long does the disability application process take?
The process typically takes 18 months to 2 years, including initial application, reconsideration, and potential administrative law judge hearings for denied claims.
What's the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI requires work credits from recent employment, while SSI is need-based with asset limits. Both programs require meeting SSA's disability definition through medical evidence.
Do I need an attorney for my disability claim?
While not required, hiring an experienced attorney significantly improves approval chances, especially during appeals where success rates exceed 60% with legal representation.
How are disability attorneys paid?
We work on contingency with no upfront fees. Payment comes from a percentage of retroactive benefits awarded, with maximum fees regulated by the Social Security Administration.
What happens during a disability hearing?
The administrative law judge will ask about your medical condition, treatment history, and functional limitations. Our attorneys prepare clients through mock hearings and provide representation during testimony.
