Who decides cases at this office
The panel of 7 judges at the Norwalk office shows a moderate spread in approval rates, with individual judge outcomes ranging from 50% to 78%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one weighs medical evidence through a different lens. This variation means your file must be strong enough to stand on its own merits regardless of who presides over your hearing.
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cynthia A. Minter | 78% | 1,863 | |
| 2 | Margaret E. Luke | 72% | 267 | |
| 3 | Tom Duann | 67% | 4,331 | |
| 4 | James P. Nguyen | 58% | 3,919 | |
| 5 | Paul Coulter | 57% | 3,639 | |
| 6 | Dean Yanohira | 53% | 122 | |
| 7 | James Carberry | 50% | 3,900 |
How long you'll wait
At Norwalk, the average wait from hearing request to written decision is 9 months— versus a national average of 8 months. Here's how it's tracked month by month over the past 16 months.
Approval rates change with a lawyer
Source: U.S. Government Accountability Office, GAO-18-37. The 3× gap is a population-wide average across all judges; individual outcomes vary.
Going to your hearing
Your hearing is a formal proceeding where an ALJ will evaluate the evidence that was missing or overlooked during your initial application. With a 9-month wait, you have a valuable runway to update your medical records and document how your impairments prevent you from performing basic work tasks. Bring an updated list of all medications, including side effects that impact your daily function, and consider a daily-activity log to illustrate your limitations. The hearing typically lasts about an hour, during which a Vocational Expert will often testify about the types of jobs, if any, that someone with your specific restrictions could perform. Ensure all new evidence is submitted well before the hearing, as last-minute additions are strictly limited.
When a panel's approval rates span nearly 30 points, your file must be comprehensive enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. Many claimants assume the hearing is a simple conversation, but it is a legal proceeding where the Vocational Expert's testimony can make or break your case. An attorney who understands the Norwalk panel can help you anticipate these questions and ensure your medical records are perfectly aligned with the criteria for disability.
Field offices that route cases here
If your hearing is at Norwalk, your case originated at one of the SSA field offices below — the local intake counter where you (or a representative) filed the initial application. Field offices don't decide hearings, but they hold your file, issue benefit-payment notices, and field the day-to-day questions during your wait.
Frequently asked questions
The current average wait for a hearing at this office is 9 months. This timeframe is consistent with national averages, but it is important to use this period to ensure your medical evidence is complete. An attorney can help you manage your timeline and prepare your evidence.
Cases are assigned randomly to one of the 7 judges on the panel. Because approval rates vary across the panel, your attorney will review your file to ensure it addresses the specific evidentiary standards required by the office.
You generally cannot choose your judge, as assignments are made by the SSA to ensure impartiality. If you have concerns about a specific judge's history with your case, consult with an attorney to discuss your legal options.
While there is no formal dress code, dressing in neat, professional attire shows respect for the court and the ALJ. Focus on comfort, as you may be sitting for an extended period during your testimony. An attorney can help you understand what to expect during your hearing.
While you are not required to have an attorney, represented claimants are statistically more likely to receive a favorable decision. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the hearing and ensure your evidence is presented effectively.