Attorney Danielle Grassmyer earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 2006, following a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Wayne State University. She is a dedicated disability law attorney with over 15 years of experience, having developed a deep understanding of the Social Security process and a strong commitment to advocating for individuals seeking the benefits they deserve.
Danielle’s legal career spans both the public and private sectors, which has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the disability claims process. She began her career in private practice in 2008, where she represented clients in Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims, advocating on their behalf at hearings. Managing a high-volume caseload, she conducted legal research and passionately worked to help her clients secure the benefits they deserve. Danielle also played an instrumental role in developing a veterans’ disability practice, helping ensure that veterans received the benefits they earned. She then transitioned to the public sector, serving as an Administrative Law Examiner with the Michigan Administrative Hearing System, where she presided over hearings and drafted decisions for various cases.
In 2015, Danielle’s commitment to disability advocacy led her to serve as an Attorney Adviser for the Social Security Administration (SSA). In this role, she handled some of the most complex cases, including Appeals Council remands, Continuing Disability Reviews, and Disabled Widow’s Benefits. Subsequently, she was detailed to the OHO Initial Claims Cadre, where she provided assistance to Florida Disability Determination Services (DDS) by adjudicating claims at the initial level. Beyond her casework, Danielle has been actively involved in mentoring and training initiatives, sharing her expertise to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of SSD adjudication. She has led training programs on key disability law topics, including Continuing Disability Reviews, the Revised Musculoskeletal Disorders Listings, and best practices for drafting Fully Favorable Decisions. Her high productivity and exceptional case closure rate have earned her multiple performance awards.
Outside of her legal practice, Danielle is deeply committed to her community, serving as a member of the Central Macomb Optimist Club. She participates in projects that support local youth, demonstrating her dedication to making a positive impact both professionally and personally.
Danielle’s dedication to her clients goes beyond legal representation—she is honored to stand beside them, offering compassionate guidance every step of the way. She remains committed to fighting for their rights, staying current on policy changes and legal developments to better serve them. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys reading, exploring the natural beauty of Michigan, and spending quality time with her three children.
Civic and Community Engagement
- Member, Central Macomb Optimist Club, 2017 – present
Publications and Presentations
- Co-Leader, Social Security Mental Listings Changes Training, SSA, 2017
- Co-Leader, Continuing Disability Reviews Training, SSA, 2018
- Mentor, Decision Writing for SSA Attorneys, 2018-2019
- Facilitator, Revised Musculoskeletal Disorders Listings Training, SSA, July 2021
- Presenter, Proffer Rule Training, SSA All-Staff Meeting, November 2021
- Lead Trainer, Proffering Evidence, SSA OCEP, January 2022
- Lead Trainer, Fully Favorable Decision – Practical Tips, SSA OCEP, January 2023
