California
Social Security Disability Lawyers in California
Crossroads Disability represents California SSDI and SSI claimants at every stage — initial application through federal appeal. Free case evaluation. No fee unless we win.
How we help California disability claimants
Our practice covers the full Social Security Disability process across California: filing new SSDI and SSI applications, requesting reconsideration after a denial, and trying cases before Administrative Law Judges at California's Office of Hearings Operations. Hearings are now routinely held by video and phone, so you do not need a local-only attorney to be well-represented.
California's economy is anchored in agriculture, tech, healthcare, and entertainment. That mix produces a distinct caseload — we frequently see a high cost of living that makes SSI's strict income rules especially difficult, and a backlog of pending claims across multiple OHOs. We build the medical and vocational record the way ALJs decide cases, and we know how to translate physically demanding work histories into the language SSA examiners use.
California Office of Hearings Operations
California routes hearings through the following OHO locations: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno, San Bernardino, San Jose, Oakland, Long Beach, Stockton. The Social Security Administration assigns claimants to a hearing office based on residence, but video hearings are now standard, which means scheduling and travel are rarely an issue.
California disability claim timeline
- Initial decision: 6–8 months
- Reconsideration after denial: 3–6 months
- ALJ hearing scheduling: 10–15 months after request
- Appeals Council review: 12+ months when needed
A claim that runs the full appeals track can take 18 to 24 months. The earlier you have experienced counsel involved, the cleaner the medical record and the better your odds at every stage.
California cities we serve
We represent claimants in every county in California. Below are some of the California metros we publish dedicated guides for:
What we handle
- Initial SSDI and SSI applications
- Reconsideration and ALJ hearings
- Medical evidence development and treating-source statements
- Vocational and grid-rule analysis
- Federal court appeals
Cost
Nothing up front. Our fee is set by federal law — 25% of past-due benefits or $9,200 (2025), whichever is less — and only collected if we win. See how we get paid →
Helpful guides for California claimants
- 5 Mistakes That Delay SSDI Claims
- Reconsideration vs. Hearing
- Disability Hearing Timeline
- Surviving the SSD Wait
About our attorneys
Crossroads Disability is led by three founding partners who handle disability claims nationwide. Meet the team →
California disability FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How long do disability hearings take in California?+
California ALJ hearings typically take 10 to 15 months from the date a hearing is requested, in line with national averages. Initial application decisions take 6 to 8 months and reconsideration adds another 3 to 6 months.
Where are California disability hearings held?+
California has Office of Hearings Operations locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno, San Bernardino, San Jose, Oakland, Long Beach, Stockton. Most hearings are now held by video or phone, so your physical location in the state rarely matters.
Do I have to live near your office to hire Crossroads Disability?+
No. We represent California claimants statewide. Hearings are handled by video and document exchange is electronic, so location is not a factor.
What does it cost to hire a California disability lawyer?+
Nothing up front. Federal law caps Social Security Disability attorney fees at 25% of past-due benefits or $9,200 (2025 cap), whichever is less, and the fee is only collected if we win.