A lawyer cannot change the process, but they can make it more efficient, which can make it faster. They can make sure that all the information is properly presented to the Social Security Administration. They can ensure that the forms are filled out completely and in a way that best supports your claim. They can contact your doctors to get the medical records and statements from them which can make your case. They can do the necessary research which persuades the judge to agree with your point of view. And of course they can prepare you for your hearing so that if you need to testify, which is likely, you can come across as favorably as possible.
Some lawyers do not like represent people unless they have already been denied by the Social Security Administration. We disagree with that. Filing for Social Security is a lengthy, complex legal process. If you have a hearing before a judge, they will look at every piece of paper you submitted. If you have a lawyer review the documents at the earliest stages of the process they can protect you; if not, they can’t.