It is not uncommon for an application for social security disability benefits to be denied by the SSA. In these instances, it is important to understand that social security disability attorneys specialize in this form of law and know the steps to take to file an appeal and effectively argue a case. These lawyers can either be paid for out of pocket, or can be appointed by the state. If an individual or family does not have the necessary funds to pay an attorney's legal fees, then he or she can go to a local legal aid office and have one assigned to their case. An attorney will help his or her client throughout the appeals process and help him or her to gather the necessary information to challenge the SSA's decision.