With an allowance rate spread ranging from 40% to 85% across the panel, the judge you draw at Los Angeles West significantly impacts your outcome. While the office's 63% approval rate is typical, this wide variance means your file must be prepared for any judge assigned. Use the 9-month wait to organize your medical evidence and prepare for the vocational expert's testimony. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your hearing will likely last about an hour, during which an ALJ will review your file and hear testimony. Because this office has a wide spread in judge allowance rates, your preparation must focus on meeting the burden of proof. You should bring an updated list of all medications, including side effects, and a detailed log of your daily activity limitations. A vocational expert will likely testify about whether jobs exist that you can perform; you have the right to question them on these conclusions. Ensure all new medical records are submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute evidence is often restricted. Your final decision will arrive by mail after the hearing concludes.
The Judges at This Office
Outcomes at this office vary across the panel of 7 judges, with allowance rates spanning from 40% to 85%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each weighs evidence differently. This wide spread makes it essential that your file is prepared to meet a high standard of proof, as your success should not depend on the luck of the draw.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When an office's allowance rates span 45 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. Many claimants spend the 9-month wait simply waiting for a hearing date, but you can use this time to pressure-test your medical evidence against the specific criteria an ALJ will use.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy for your hearing day at the Los Angeles West office, located at Suite 400, 12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90025.
Most Favorable Judges
Los Angeles, CA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elizabeth R. Lishner | 66% | 76% | 21,426 | |
| 2 | John P. Giannikas | 65% | 55% | 4,937 | |
| 3 | Gail Reich | 63% | 76% | 27,051 | |
| 4 | Robin Rosenbluth | 59% | 63% | 25,470 | |
| 5 | Sally C. Reason | 44% | 38% | 26,475 | |
| 6 | Susan Hoffman | 43% | 37% | 5,193 | |
| 7 | Lawrence D. Wheeler | 42% | 36% | 5,416 | |
| 8 | Richard T. Breen | 39% | 44% | 28,552 |
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.