The application process at first isn't that hard. You can do it without a lawyer. The social security people request all your records; you don't have to. If you don't get approved at first then talk to lawyers again. But I would try just to see. I was approved in 11 weeks and I did it myself. My plan had been to apply myself and if it failed hire an attorney. The lawyers are the experts and may very well be right but it doesn't hurt to try.