In most cases, you do not need a lawyer to start the appeals process. The general process of appealing a health care denial, for example, really is straightforward enough to do yourself. The most difficult part is probably just figuring out how to begin. You don't have to deal with it yourself, though; you can call your SHIP for free assistance when dealing with Medicare issues.

If your request is denied and you need to continue to appeal at upper levels, you may want to enlist the help of a lawyer or other advocate.

To find the SHIP near you, click on the link in the LINKS box.