SSD Hearing, do you need to be there?

[Piruka]

I have a question for those who have gone through the hearing process.
Do I need to be there even if I have an attorney representing me?
I've been trying for SSD for a few years and gone through a couple hearings already. Both took place where I live but this time they're having it in the state next to where I live and I have no transportation or even money to get there.
Of course, I'm going to call the attorney on this but was wondering if any of you had a hearing and was able to be excused from showing and have your attorney represent you.

[Julie]

I think it's always best that you attend. Maybe they have a way to video conference you in. Have your lawyer investigate all ways...even a phone conference would be good.

Good luck.

[Piruka]

Julie, thanks for your reply.
I spent the day in contact with my attorney's office but she was in court. They were going to try and do something about it.
Late in the afternoon the attorney called to say that while I was talking to her supervisor, the judge's office was calling her to say he revised my case and offered a fully favorable decision with a slightly different onset date for my disability.
I accepted it because I'm tired of the merry go round. Been fighting SSD since 1999 and without any income since wc stopped benefits almost 4 years ago (that's another battle).
I just want to thank everybody here and those from who came here from OBT for their support through all these years. The amount of good info and good common sense you guys have to offer is incredible! THANK YOU!!!!