Denied. Delayed. Confused?
We fight back.
Nashville disability lawyers with one focus: For Tennessee families denied Social Security disability benefits. 20+ years of experience. No fee unless we win — period.
A denial is not the end. But the clock is ticking.
Most SSDI claims are denied at first. That doesn't mean you don't qualify — it usually means the paperwork wasn't complete. From the date on your denial letter, you have just 60 days to file an appeal. Miss that window and you start over.
We've handled thousands of appeals at every level — reconsideration, ALJ hearings, Appeals Council, federal court. Most clients come to us already denied. Many get approved.
We focus on one thing — disability law.
Specialty creates depth. Depth creates wins. Every case at Downard is a disability case.
SSDI Claims
Initial applications and full case management for Social Security Disability Insurance. From paperwork to approval.
Learn more →Disability Appeals
Denied at the initial stage? You have 60 days. We handle reconsideration and ALJ hearings.
Learn more →ALJ Hearings
The hearing is your last best chance to win benefits. We prepare you for every question the judge will ask.
Learn more →SSI Claims
Supplemental Security Income for those without sufficient work history. Need-based federal benefits.
Learn more →Veterans · SSDI
Dual-claim representation for veterans. Led by a former JAG officer.
Learn more →Tennessee roots. Nationwide reach.
We're a Nashville-based firm with deep roots in Tennessee — and because Social Security disability is federal practice, we represent clients across the country. Wherever you are, your case can be handled.
Tennessee — where we live and practice every day.
Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Jackson, and beyond. Two decades of experience inside the offices and hearing rooms that decide Tennessee disability cases.
See our Tennessee practice →Regional focus
Active practice in Kentucky, Missouri, and Arkansas — where we know the regional SSA offices, the hearing patterns, and the judges.
Nationwide referrals welcome
Have a friend or family member out of state who needs help? Call us. Federal SSDI practice means we can represent — or refer to a trusted partner — anywhere in the U.S.
Hearings everywhere
Most SSDI hearings are now held by phone or video — meaning location matters less than experience. We've handled cases for clients in nearly every state.
Because Social Security disability is federal law, where you live doesn't limit us. Moved out of state? Filing from anywhere in the country? We can still represent you.
Three reasons clients choose this Nashville disability lawyer every time.
We don't dabble. We don't take cases outside disability law. We do this — and we do it well.
Specialty & depth
Disability law is what we do — every case, every day, for 20+ years. We know the SSA's playbook because we've seen every variation of it. We know what wins.
Real human service
You'll never get a call center. You'll get a real attorney and a real legal team that picks up the phone, returns your messages, and remembers your case.
No fee unless we win
If we don't win your case, you owe us nothing. Zero financial risk to call.
From your first call to the day you're approved.
We've broken down a complex federal process into four steps. We handle everything in between.
Free case review
You call or fill out the form. We listen. If we can help, we tell you. If not, we point you to who can.
We file or appeal
We gather records, work with your doctors, and file your application or appeal — completely and on time.
We prepare you
If a hearing is scheduled, we prep you on every question and every record. You walk in ready.
You get approved
We collect your back pay. The SSA pays our fee. You start receiving monthly benefits and Medicare.
What our clients say after they win.
200+ five-star reviews. Every one a real Tennessee family. Every one a real outcome.
I didn't know how important choosing the right law firm could impact my success. Jodi patiently explained the process and constantly reassured me. If you are looking for high expertise and great communication, please hire Downard.
Every single person at this firm had my back. Always available to answer questions, fought for my approval, and got it. I can't say enough about Downard & Associates. There's no better choice. Thanks so much!
When I was down and needed help, Downard was there. The whole team treated me like a person, not a case number. Thank you Downard & Associates for helping me get my life back.
Questions we hear every day.
No wrong questions. If yours isn't here, call — we respond to every message.
See all FAQs →What does it cost to hire Downard & Associates?
I was denied. Is it too late to get help?
How long does SSDI approval take in Tennessee?
What conditions qualify for Social Security Disability?
I used another lawyer and was still denied. Can Downard help?
What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?
How much will I receive monthly if approved?
Do you handle veterans with both VA and SSDI claims?
Ready to fight back?
Free case review. No obligation. We respond within 2 hours.