Do I really need a lawyer at my first ssi hearing?

I would say you should really consider getting a lawyer to represent you at your hearing. Also you could find an advocate to represent you and sometimes they don't charge as much as a lawyer would. A lawyer can not take more then $5400.00 of your back pay and they will not get paid unless you do. I have known people who have went without representation and lost. I also know people who had representation and lost. But I hear your chances of winning are greatly increased with a lawyer. Good Luck