Attorney

Ever since graduating from law school in 1979, I have emphasized the practice of Social Security law - first, with Georgia Legal Services; then returning to my law school to teach students how to practice law while representing individuals with disability claims. From 1983 to 1987 I was privileged to practice with Rudolph Patterson, Esq. in Macon, Georgia. Mr. Patterson was the founder of the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR), an organization of more than 3,300 lawyers across the country who are vitally interested in the rights of disabled individuals under the Social Security Act. Mr. Patterson, himself, is unanimously considered to be one of the very best and most respected Social Security lawyers in the country. Over the years, I became more active in NOSSCR until I was privileged to be President in 1999 - 2000. I remain on the Council of Past Presidents.

Representing individuals claiming Social Security benefits is an honor. It doesn't compare with any other practice of law because the people I have been privileged to represent have a special kind of pride and dignity. we would all be kidding ourselves if we didn't recognize that money is involved in any case. However, what lies at the heart of every case is not money - but the right to be treated as a human being. Almost everyone who comes to see me feels they have been "treated like a number". I have never forgotten the lesson that Mr. Patterson taught me my very first day on the job. It is all about the people. Every client - with their own, individual feelings and circumstances - is a constant reminder of that principle every morning when I open the front door. And it is the foundation of any effective presentation.

I cannot promise that any one person will win their case. I can promise that you will be treated with the dignity you deserve - by me, my staff and, ultimately, Social Security. I can promise my staff and I will do the best professional job we can to help you.