You are not required to have a representative with you at your hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) but it is well-advised since it can take well over a year to get a hearing scheduled. For something that takes so long to get, you should be as prepared as possible. Representation generally results in a substantially more prepared case in addition to a better understanding of the facts of the case and a more skilled presentation as to why you qualify for disability benefits. In case you do not win your case at the hearing, it is important to have an attorney present who can take your case to appeal in the Federal Court system. Unlike most attorneys, Avard Law attorneys do Federal Court appeals. Before you hire another disability attorney, ask if this attorney does Federal Court appeals.