David A. Morton has degrees in psychology (B.A.) and medicine (M.D.). For 14 years, he was a disability determination consultant for the Social Security Administration, serving as Chief Medical Consultant for eight years. In his capacity as Chief Medical Consultant, Dr. Morton hired, trained, supervised and evaluated the work of medical doctors and clinical psychologists, and made thousands of disability determinations for both adults and children. Since 1983, Dr. Morton has authored several books on Social Security disability for attorneys and judges, including Nolo's Guide to Social Security Disability.
Articles By David A. Morton III
Can an Adult With ADHD, or Attention Deficit Disorder, Get Social Security Disability?
Adults can sometimes qualify for Social Security Disability benefits based on adult attention deficit disorder.
Social Security Disability Benefits for Schizophrenia
Those suffering from schizophrenia must have medical records that show how they are limited in functioning socially, focusing on tasks, or in other ways.
Getting Disability for Spinal Cord Injury or Paralysis
Many, but not all, individuals with spinal cord injuries are automatically eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
Social Security Disability for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
To get disability for PTSD, Social Security needs to see evidence of past trauma, current symptoms, and severe limitations.
Reviewing Your Social Security Disability File Before an Appeal
To prepare for your appeal, request a copy of your disability file from Social Security and review it for errors.
What Medical Evidence Is Required by Social Security Disability?
Social Security disability needs timely, accurate, and sufficient medical evidence.
Should You Bring a Witness to Your Disability Appeal Hearing?
You aren't required to bring witnesses to your disability hearing, but in some cases, they can be helpful to your case.
Does Taking Any Medication Automatically Qualify You for Social Security Disability Benefits?
No drug will automatically make you eligible for disability benefits because the side effects are different for everyone.
Will My GAF Score Affect Whether I Can Get Social Security Disability?
Your GAF score is just one piece of evidence Social Security will look at when deciding if you're disabled.
Can I Get Social Security Disability for a Somatoform Disorder?
With a proper psychiatric diagnosis and documentation of your symptoms and limitations, you may be able to get disability benefits for somatoform disorder.