Testimony of a “Before and After” Nature
An Augusta Social Security disability law firm may want to obtain lay testimony of a “before and after” nature to compare your condition before the beginning of your disability to your condition now.
A wife who testifies that you are disabled because you have emphysema and that you both need money provides less than ideal “before and after” testimony because she simply gives conclusions and does not provide any of her observations.
Your wife can give better testimony by stating that she met you 28 years ago and married you 26 years ago, that you are, and always have been, a very hard provider and worker, that you are under great stress because you are unable to continue to provide for your family and that she has been forced to find employment because of your disability.
If your wife then gives her observations of your impairments and how they limit what you are able to do, especially pertaining to your work, and confirms the medical regimen you must follow, she will give even better testimony. In addition, any detailed testimony outlining how your disability hampers daily living activities, such as being able to sleep at night or pick up your grandchild, will greatly enhance the quality of her lay testimony.
Corroborative Testimony
In many instances, testimony from lay witnesses is used to simply validate your testimony.
The following examination gives an example of the method your Augusta Social Security disability lawyer may use to corroborate your testimony:
Q: How often are you able to make observation of the claimant?
A: Nearly every day.
Q: Is it correct that you have heard the entirety of the testimony given by the claimant?
A: That is correct.
Q: If I asked you the very same questions the claimant has been asked, would the answers you give be exactly the same or basically the same as those the claimant gave?
A: Yes they would.
Q: As you have observed the claimant today do you believe she has testified truthfully?
A: Yes.
Obtaining Legal Counsel
If you have questions concerning your Social Security disability hearing and would like to visit with a knowledgeable and experienced disability attorney, please contact the Augusta Social Security disability lawyer to request a free consultation.