The Oakland hearing office maintains a 65% allowance rate, which is high for a hearing office, suggesting a favorable environment for well-documented claims. With a steady 8-month wait time, you have a predictable window to organize your medical evidence. Because the panel of judges shows a tight allowance-rate spread, your outcome will likely depend on the quality of your file. An attorney can help you prepare your evidence to ensure your claim is as strong as possible before your hearing.
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Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your hearing at the Oakland Federal Building will typically involve an ALJ reviewing your file and potentially hearing testimony from a Vocational Expert regarding your ability to perform work. You must submit all updated medical records, medication lists, and daily-activity logs well before the evidence-submission deadline. Arriving with a clear, concise summary of your limitations is essential. The judge will not issue a decision immediately; you will receive a written notice by mail after the proceedings conclude.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 7 judges at this office is consistent, with allowance rates clustering between 55% and 74%. This narrow spread means that outcomes are generally predictable regardless of which judge is assigned to your case. While random assignment is standard, each judge weighs evidence differently, so your file must be robust enough to meet the evidentiary standards of the entire panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Even in an office with a 65% allowance rate, the difference between a successful claim and a denial often comes down to how you present your medical limitations to the Vocational Expert. Understanding the Oakland panel allows you to anticipate the specific questions the judge will ask about your work history and physical capacity. Use your remaining wait time to ensure your file is complete before you step into the hearing room.
About This Hearing Office
With 1,987 dispositions processed in the latest period, this office is a high-traffic hub for SSDI claims in California. Keep these location and contact details handy as you approach your hearing date.
Most Favorable Judges
Oakland, CA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Major Williams Jr. | 84% | 71% | 13,360 | |
| 2 | John J. Flanagan | 75% | 64% | 16,837 | |
| 3 | David R. Mazzi | 75% | 64% | 15,868 | |
| 4 | Bradlee S. Welton | 73% | 62% | 2,403 | |
| 5 | Michael Blume | 72% | 61% | 2,323 | |
| 6 | Lisa Lunsford | 72% | 54% | 22,910 | |
| 7 | Debra M. Underwood | 71% | 60% | 18,497 | |
| 8 | Evangelina P. Hernandez | 68% | 58% | 19,286 | |
| 9 | Kevin Gill | 62% | 48% | 22,370 | |
| 10 | E. Alis | 61% | 46% | 24,676 | |
| 11 | Richard P. Laverdure | 56% | 48% | 7,130 | |
| 12 | David LaBarre | 53% | 37% | 21,191 | |
| 13 | Kevin Plunkett | 47% | 40% | 20,460 | |
| 14 | Cheryl Tompkin | 47% | 40% | 8,827 | |
| 15 | MaryAnn Lunderman | 32% | 27% | 24,379 |
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.