You are not required to hire a lawyer in order to pursue a disability claim. However, it is important to note that the Social Security Administration has found that claimants who use a lawyer are far more successful in winning their claims than those who do not.
It is advised that you hire an attorney because there are important forms that you must fill out when you begin filing your claim. These forms can determine whether or not you win your case, so it is recommended that you seek the help of an attorney in order to fill them out correctly.
An attorney can also ensure that you have all of the evidence presented to prove your claim so that you do not lose your claim due to insufficient evidence. Since attorneys are familiar with the Social Security system and have experience winning a disability claim, hiring an attorney can increase the chances of winning your claim.