Applying for disability benefits is more complicated than ever. Although the process can feel overwhelming, understanding how the system works can greatly improve your chances of winning a case. Whether you’re applying yourself or helping someone else, knowing the right approach is crucial.

A Career in Disability Law: How It All Began

Many attorneys don’t start their careers intending to focus on disability law—it often happens by chance. For Eric Goodale, that was certainly the case. After law school, his first job involved a mix of legal work, including Social Security cases. Over time, he found himself drawn to disability law, particularly reviewing medical records and understanding how they impacted cases. This interest led him to Washington, D.C., where he specialized in Social Security cases full-time.

Gaining Experience Across the Country

Working with a national firm gave Eric the opportunity to handle cases in 38 states, appearing before a wide range of judges. Before COVID, this meant extensive travel for in-person hearings. Eventually, he put down roots in Raleigh, North Carolina, joining Henson & Fuerst in 2012 to continue his focus on Social Security disability law.

Why Disability Law Stuck

Some attorneys try different practice areas before settling into a specialty, but Eric remained committed to disability law. One reason? He truly enjoys it. Social Security hearings are different from other types of legal proceedings—the rigid rules of evidence don’t always apply, allowing attorneys to focus more on their clients’ stories. For Eric, cutting through the legal red tape to advocate directly for his clients is what makes the work fulfilling.

What Makes a Great Disability Lawyer?

Being a great disability lawyer isn’t just about knowing the law—it’s about understanding people. Eric states that strong listening skills are essential in this field. Many clients have been through incredibly tough experiences, and for some, a disability hearing is the first time they feel truly heard. Compassion, patience, and respect go a long way in making the process easier for them.

Often, clients fixate on specific details—like the exact date they became disabled—because it’s important to them. A skilled disability lawyer helps clients focus on the bigger picture, balancing their expectations with the reality of what’s needed to build a strong case.

Keeping Clients Informed: The Role of Communication

Communication is critical in disability law, but it’s also one of the biggest challenges. With many cases to manage, staying in constant contact with every client can be tough. That’s why, at Henson & Fuerst, Eric works with a team of case managers to ensure clients always have support. While attorneys play a key role, clients should know that case managers and staff can often answer questions and guide them through the process.

As hearings approach, attorney-client communication ramps up. This is when it’s crucial to prepare, ensuring that clients feel confident and ready for the final steps of their case.

The Bigger Picture: Why This Work Matters

Disability law is about more than legal strategy—it’s about people. It requires empathy, clear communication, and a deep understanding of a client’s life and medical history. The process isn’t easy, but with the right approach, attorneys can help make it more manageable. A strong team and honest guidance can make all the difference in securing benefits for those who truly need them.\