Tucson's 71% allowance rate is high for a hearing office, suggesting that well-documented claims often succeed here. With a steady 7.5-month wait time, you have a predictable window to organize your medical records before your hearing date. Because the panel of judges shows moderate variation in their approval rates, your prep work should focus on building a file that clearly demonstrates your limitations to any judge. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
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Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 7.5-month wait, you have a clear runway to ensure your medical file is complete before your hearing. Your most critical task is submitting updated medical records and a daily-activity log that reflects your current functional limitations. During your hearing, an ALJ will preside while a vocational expert typically testifies about available work. You should be prepared to answer questions about your symptoms and how they prevent you from performing past jobs. Because this office has a high allowance rate, a file that is meticulously organized with recent clinical notes and medication side-effect logs is your strongest asset. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.
The Judges at This Office
The panel in Tucson consists of 7 judges who show moderate variation in their decision-making. With individual allowance rates ranging from 49% to 82%, there is meaningful difference in how each judge weighs evidence. Since cases are assigned randomly, your preparation must be robust enough to satisfy the requirements of any judge on the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Even at an office with a 71% allowance rate, the difference between a denial and an approval often comes down to how effectively you address the vocational expert's testimony. You can anticipate these questions and ensure your medical records directly counter the arguments that led to your initial denial. A professional review of your file can identify gaps that might otherwise derail your claim.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details for the Rio Nuevo Professional Plaza office handy as you finalize your hearing preparations.
Most Favorable Judges
Tucson, AZ
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | George W. Reyes | 80% | 68% | 18,868 | |
| 2 | Larry E. Johnson | 76% | 75% | 24,513 | |
| 3 | Tin Tin Chen | 71% | 76% | 16,185 | |
| 4 | Charles Davis | 68% | 61% | 27,615 | |
| 5 | Yasmin Elias | 63% | 52% | 18,729 | |
| 6 | Peter J. Baum | 63% | 65% | 28,672 | |
| 7 | Laura S. Havens | 50% | 44% | 29,443 |
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.