Florence moves cases faster than the national average, with a 6.5-month wait time that has remained steady throughout the year. With a 49% allowance rate, your case outcome depends on the evidence you present. An attorney can help you organize your medical records and prepare for vocational testimony.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Because hearings in Florence move faster than the national average, you have less time to finalize your evidence before your date is set. You should prioritize gathering updated medical records and a detailed log of your daily activities, as these are the primary tools an ALJ uses to evaluate your functional limits. During your hearing, a vocational expert will likely testify about jobs that fit your restrictions, and you will have the opportunity to question their conclusions. Ensure all witness statements and medication lists are submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute evidence is often restricted. Your final decision will arrive by mail several weeks after the hearing concludes.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 8 judges at this office shows a moderate spread in allowance rates, which range from 29% to 68% with a median of 44%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each weighs evidence differently. This variation makes it essential to build a file that is robust enough to succeed regardless of which judge presides over your hearing.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Hearings at this office come up quickly, leaving little room for error once your date is set. You can anticipate the specific questions a vocational expert will ask and ensure your medical records directly address the criteria for your condition. With a panel that varies in how they interpret evidence, having a professional to pressure-test your file before you walk into the hearing room is a significant advantage.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy for your hearing day, including the office location at the Walnut Street Executive Center and the contact information for the staff.
Most Favorable Judges
Florence, AL
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Douglas A. Wright | 76% | 65% | 18,437 | |
| 2 | Jason A. Lewis | 62% | 62% | 18,463 | |
| 3 | Lori J. Williams | 52% | 34% | 23,354 | |
| 4 | James Grimes | 47% | 30% | 22,114 | |
| 5 | Mallette Richey | 46% | 35% | 23,691 | |
| 6 | Randall C. Stout | 45% | 38% | 3,664 | |
| 7 | Patrick R. Digby | 33% | 34% | 22,500 |
Your odds change dramatically with a lawyer
SSDI hearing approval rates — with a lawyer vs. on your own
Source: U.S. Government Accountability Office, GAO-18-37 — analysis of SSA ALJ adult disability decisions, FY 2007–2015. Applicants with a lawyer got approved at a rate nearly three times higher than those without. Individual case outcomes vary based on medical evidence, the specific judge, and quality of representation. Checking whether you qualify for a free benefits review takes 2 minutes.
Wait Time Trend
Average months from hearing request to decision — last 16 months
Nearest SSA Field Offices
Where to apply or check on your claim in person
Frequently Asked Questions
About This Content
Statistics come from SSA's Office of Hearings Operations reports and publicly available judge decision data. Approval rates count both full and partial approvals. Wait times reflect the average from hearing request to decision.