Susan Michele Schaefer

Susan Michele Schaefer is an attorney who handles Social Security disability, VA disability, bankruptcy, wills, and estate matters. She has more than thirty years of professional legal experience, including trial work, disability policy, and client advocacy. Her background helps her understand complex claims from both legal and agency perspectives. She guides clients through difficult benefits, financial, and planning issues with careful advice, practical strategy, and steady support for each case.

Susan earned her J.D. from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1988. She also holds a B.A. in English from Indiana University Bloomington, earned in 1984. Her legal education prepared her for courtroom practice, policy analysis, and detailed case review. Her English degree supports her strong writing, research, and communication skills.

Susan began her career as a trial lawyer handling civil and criminal matters. She later built a long career with the Social Security Administration, serving in field offices, hearings operations, and national policy roles. She worked as a Hearing Office Director, Supervisory Attorney, Senior Attorney, Deputy Director, Branch Chief, and Technical Expert. This experience helps clients understand disability rules, evidence needs, hearings, and appeals with greater clarity and confidence throughout.

Susan Michele Schaefer has helped people by applying deep knowledge of disability systems, medical rules, vocational standards, and benefits procedures. She also supports veterans through pro bono representation and provides free legal advice through public service projects. Her work reflects empathy, careful listening, and client-centered advocacy. Whether assisting with disability claims, bankruptcy concerns, wills, or estates, she focuses on practical solutions that protect clients and support their goals through legal challenges effectively.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Cardea Law Group, LLC
• Member, Alabama State Bar
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives
• Member, Indiana State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Alabama
• Indiana

Education

• Valparaiso University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Indiana University
  BA in English

Awards & Badges