As a paralegal, you can represent claimants before the Social Security Administration as well as before an Administrative Law Judge once you are appointed as a representative with Form 1696. However, you may not “practice” in a federal court unless you are admitted as an attorney before the court. Does anyone know why?
Because being appointed a representative on a Form 1696 has nothing to do with being or not being a paralegal. It is more like a specialized power of attorney. Children who are managing their parents' affairs are usually appointed in these matters.