I wouldn't go quite as far as Fred. Just having an attorney does not mean they will pay, but not having one almost guarantees they will not. I appealed several of these for clients and a good social seciurity attorney makes a huge difference. Hire someone who does ALOT of SS work. This is not an area where you want a family law generalist. You want someone who knows the procedure and the ALJ's (Administrative Law Judge) in your area. If you have no case, the atty can tell you that too. You must move fast. There are time limits. Get on the phone tomorrow and get an appeal started. Good luck.