3 Best Social Security Disability Lawyers in Carmel, IN

“2026 Update: Hess Hess & Donnelson, LLP attorneys have extensive experience in the area of Social Security Disability law. They represent clients at every level of the administrative process, including filing initial applications for Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), submitting Requests for Reconsideration, and representing clients at Administrative Law Judge hearings. The firm also represents clients before the Appeals Council and in federal court, including the United States District Court for the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana. With many years of experience handling Social Security disability matters, the attorneys understand the wide range of disabling conditions, the limitations these conditions impose, and how those limitations affect a client’s ability to work. They possess the knowledge and skills necessary to present each case most persuasively and effectively.”

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“2026 Update: Annette Lee Rutkowski has more than 25 years of experience representing clients in Social Security Disability cases, from the initial application stage through administrative appeals and civil actions before the Federal courts. She focuses her legal practice on Social Security Disability, Long-Term Disability, assistance for young adults with autism, and adult guardianships. Annette Lee Rutkowski believes that successful cases are built on careful preparation and strong legal advocacy, with arguments grounded in the detailed evaluation of evidence and the proper application of the law. She emphasizes that case preparation should be attorney-driven rather than staff-driven, ensuring a high level of personal attention and legal strategy. She views the practice of law as an honorable profession, not merely a legal service business. As a respected leader in the disability legal community, Ms. Rutkowski regularly teaches and speaks at local and national events. She also frequently accepts referrals for complex Appeals Council and federal court claims from other law firms.”

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“2026 Update: Katie Ellen Brinkmeyer’s dedication to assisting individuals with disabilities is rooted in her close personal experiences with friends and family members who have suffered from debilitating impairments. Witnessing their challenges firsthand helped her better understand the many obstacles they faced and strengthened her commitment to helping people obtain the care and benefits they deserve. She is an active member of NOSSCR and Indiana Bar Association. Ms. Brinkmeyer previously worked at the Social Security Administration, Office of Hearing Operations in Indianapolis, Indiana, where she served as an Attorney Advisor from 2010 to 2019. Before that, she worked at Stewart & Stewart Attorneys in Carmel, Indiana, where she practiced Social Security Disability, Personal Injury, and Workers’ Compensation law as an Attorney from 2008 to 2010. In addition, she is fluent in Spanish, which allows her to assist a broader range of clients.”

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