In a recent case, our client faced an adverse decision from the Appeals Council of the Social Security Administration, which overturned a judge’s favorable ruling on disability benefits. The Appeals Council cited the client’s past drug use as a reason for the decision, despite the clear legal requirement that drug or alcohol use cannot be a basis for denying disability payments unless it directly caused the impairing conditions.

Our client, dealing with serious physical and mental impairments, had occasional past drug use documented in her records. Challenging this decision, we requested a re-hearing with the judge, emphasizing the lack of evidence linking the client’s drug use to her impairing conditions. During the hearing, a medical expert appointed by the Social Security Administration testified that the client’s past drug use did not cause her disabling conditions and did not affect her ability to work.

As a result, the judge issued a new ruling in favor of our client, supported by the evidence presented. This decision was not contested by the Appeals Council.

This case has highlighted the importance of having an experienced attorney who can challenge unjust decisions and present compelling evidence in disability cases.