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How Hunter & Everage Helps With Social Security Cases in South Carolina

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Hunter & Everage Does

Hunter & Everage is a law firm in South Carolina that represents people in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) cases. The firm handles applications that have been denied, appeals at every level, and cases that go to hearing before an administrative law judge. They work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing upfront and the firm takes a fee only if you win your case.

The firm is based in South Carolina and focuses specifically on Social Security law. Their attorneys and representatives understand the medical evidence requirements, the appeals process, and how to present your case to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the federal courts.

Key Takeaways

  • Hunter & Everage represents clients in SSDI and SSI cases, including denials and appeals at every stage.
  • The firm works on contingency, so you pay no upfront fee; they collect a percentage of back pay only if you win.
  • You can hire a representative at any point in your case—after a denial, during an appeal, or before your hearing.
  • Social Security limits what representatives can charge; Hunter & Everage's fee is subject to SSA approval and typically comes from your back-pay award.

When to Contact Hunter & Everage

You can reach out to the firm at any stage of your Social Security case. Many people contact them after receiving a denial letter, but you can also hire representation before you file your initial application if you want guidance on what medical records to gather or how to describe your condition.

If you have already appealed and are waiting for a hearing, or if you have had a hearing and received an unfavorable decision, Hunter & Everage can take your case to federal court. The sooner you contact them, the more time they have to review your file and prepare your case.

How the Contingency Fee Works

When you hire Hunter & Everage, you sign a fee agreement that outlines what percentage of your back-pay award the firm will receive. Social Security sets a cap on representative fees—currently 25 percent of back pay or $7,200, whichever is less, though this amount can change. The SSA must approve any fee agreement before the firm can collect.

Back pay is the money Social Security owes you from the date you became disabled (or the date you filed, depending on the program) until the date your benefits begin. If you win your case and receive back pay, the firm's fee comes from that amount. You do not pay anything if you do not win.

What to Bring to Your First Consultation

Bring any paperwork you have related to your case: your denial letter, any previous appeal decisions, medical records, work history, and a list of doctors or hospitals that have treated you. If you have already filed an application with Social Security, bring a copy of that application or your Social Security number so the firm can pull your file.

You should also be ready to describe your medical conditions, how they affect your ability to work, and what you did for work before you became disabled. The more detail you can provide about your daily limitations and your medical treatment, the better the firm can assess your case.

The Appeals Process and Representation

Social Security denials can be appealed in stages. First comes reconsideration, where a different SSA examiner reviews your file. If you are denied again, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. If the judge denies you, you can appeal to the Appeals Council, and after that, to federal district court.

Hunter & Everage can represent you at any of these levels. Many cases are won at the hearing stage, where an attorney can present evidence, question medical experts, and argue why you meet Social Security's definition of disability. Having a representative who knows Social Security law and the local judges can significantly improve your chances.

Finding Hunter & Everage's Contact Information

To find Hunter & Everage's current phone number, address, and office hours, search for the firm online or contact the South Carolina Bar Association, which maintains a directory of licensed attorneys in the state. You can also ask your doctor or a local disability advocacy organization for a referral.

Many Social Security representatives also advertise through the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR), a professional group that sets ethical standards for the field. Checking whether Hunter & Everage is listed there can give you additional confidence in their credentials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hire Hunter & Everage if I already have another lawyer?

You can change representatives at any time, but you will need to notify Social Security and your current representative in writing. The firm can help you with this process. If your previous representative is owed a fee from any back pay, Social Security will deduct that before paying Hunter & Everage's fee.

What if I cannot afford a lawyer?

Hunter & Everage works on contingency, so there is no upfront cost. You pay only if you win, and the fee comes from your back-pay award, not from your ongoing monthly benefits. This structure makes representation available even if you have no money now.

How long does a Social Security case usually take?

Timeline varies widely. An initial application decision typically takes three to six months. If denied, reconsideration takes another few months. A hearing request can take one to two years or longer, depending on the judge's schedule in your area. Hunter & Everage can give you a more specific estimate based on your local office and current wait times.

Will Hunter & Everage handle my case if I have already been denied multiple times?

Yes. Cases that have been denied multiple times are common in Social Security law. The firm reviews what evidence was submitted before and what new medical records or testimony might strengthen your case at the next level. Multiple denials do not prevent you from appealing again.

What is the difference between SSDI and SSI, and does Hunter & Everage handle both?

SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security taxes you have paid. SSI is a needs-based program for people with low income and resources. Hunter & Everage represents clients in both programs. The application and appeals process are similar, though SSI has additional income and resource limits.