SSI question.....help....I need your experiences! ?!
Question: Okay. I have epilepsy ( a seizure disorder ) and have about two or three grand mals (tonic clonic) seizures a week. I am also clinicallly depressed. I take anti seizure meds (Lamictal and Clonopin) and for my depression I take 20. mgs of Lexapro. I have been on SSI for over four years. This Friday, I have a court date - a review- to see if I am any better. I say NO, but it's all in the judge's hands. My psychiatrist wrote him a letter ( Have no idea what he wrote. Also my therapist wrote him a letter.) Has anyone been to court over this? If so, how did you dress? What were your experiences? Any information is really needed and appreciated. Serious answers ONLY, please. This is a serious matter. Thank you.
Answers: Okay. I have epilepsy ( a seizure disorder ) and have about two or three grand mals (tonic clonic) seizures a week. I am also clinicallly depressed. I take anti seizure meds (Lamictal and Clonopin) and for my depression I take 20. mgs of Lexapro. I have been on SSI for over four years. This Friday, I have a court date - a review- to see if I am any better. I say NO, but it's all in the judge's hands. My psychiatrist wrote him a letter ( Have no idea what he wrote. Also my therapist wrote him a letter.) Has anyone been to court over this? If so, how did you dress? What were your experiences? Any information is really needed and appreciated. Serious answers ONLY, please. This is a serious matter. Thank you.
First off, you are entitled to a copy of any document written by your attending physicians. That's a matter of law. I also am to believe you have legal representation. Have your lawyer get a copy of those letters "before" your court date sufficiently in advance so you can be aware of what is being "said about your condition".
Anytime anyone is appearing before a court of law, the rule of thumb is "dress conservatively". Nice dress with appropriate very light makeup. Try to dress so you look "mature".
Answer all questions precisely and to the point. Don't ramble. "how are you feeling today Ms Smith?" "Fine, thank you Your Honor" or "Just going through my sinus headache but otherwise O.K., your Honor". Always finish the answer with "your Honor" when addressing the judge (bench). Don't forget the "yes sir, no sir or yes ma'am, no ma'am". If you want to address (ask) the bench (judge) always begin with "If it pleases the court ....." or "Your Honor, may I say something? Please".
Politeness counts 1000% in court! Good luck and hope all comes out in your favor.
It sounds like you may have been institutionalized or have a legal guardian??
I worked in the mental health field for many years.
I can assure you that although you may not be happy with your current situation, the courts, your guardian or whomever is keeping your best interest in mind.
My only suggestion is to answer all questions directed at you truthfully so you can get the proper treatment.
I would dress nice for my court appearance(it wouldn't hurt)
If you become angry during the proceedings, try and keep your emotions in check.
Remember these people are here to help you as well as evaluate you progress.
Good Luck
It sounds like there hasn't been any improvement, at least not enough to hold down a job. I'm sure your doctors have documented what is going on. Dress neat, clean and conservative. It will be okay.