With an allowance rate spread ranging from 28% to 74% across the panel, which judge you draw at Phoenix North significantly impacts your outcome. The office's 55% approval rate is standard, but the 11-month wait time is currently trending upward. Because outcomes vary so widely, your best strategy is to use the wait time to build a medical record that is bulletproof regardless of which judge is assigned to your case. An attorney can help you prepare for your hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With an 11-month wait, you have a substantial runway to ensure your file is complete before you step into the hearing room. Your primary task is to submit all updated medical records, including recent diagnostic tests and treatment notes, well before the deadline. During your hearing, an ALJ will preside, and a vocational expert will likely testify about your ability to perform specific jobs. You should be prepared to discuss your daily-activity logs and any side effects from your medications that limit your ability to work. Because the panel at this office is diverse, your testimony must be consistent with the medical evidence in your file. A decision is rarely issued on the spot; you will typically receive a written notice by mail several weeks after the hearing concludes.
The Judges at This Office
Outcomes at this office swing significantly across the panel, with allowance rates spanning from 28% to 74%. Because the judges here weigh evidence differently, the specific ALJ assigned to your case creates a unique set of challenges. While cases are assigned randomly, this wide spread means your file must be strong enough to withstand scrutiny from any judge on the bench.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span nearly 50 points, your file has to be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. An attorney who understands the tendencies of the Phoenix North panel can help you anticipate the vocational expert's questions and ensure your medical records directly address the criteria for disability. Use your remaining wait time to have a professional evaluate your file before you are under oath.
About This Hearing Office
With 1,360 cases currently pending at this location, keep these office details handy as you finalize your hearing preparations.
Most Favorable Judges
Phoenix, AZ
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chris L. Gavras | 72% | 61% | 7,145 | |
| 2 | Ted W. Armbruster | 60% | 70% | 29,790 | |
| 3 | John Clady | 59% | 50% | 979 | |
| 4 | Lyn Farmer | 55% | 47% | 6,597 | |
| 5 | Kelly Walls | 51% | 30% | 22,780 | |
| 6 | Thomas D. Businger | 50% | 44% | 16,917 | |
| 7 | Earl C. Cates Jr. | 48% | 41% | 9,676 | |
| 8 | Joan G. Knight | 41% | 35% | 4,475 | |
| 9 | Patricia A. Bucci | 35% | 30% | 22,916 | |
| 10 | Randolph E. Schum | 28% | 15% | 22,292 |
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.