At 44%, the allowance rate at the Stockton office is below the national average, meaning your evidence must be clear to overcome a previous denial. While the 7-month wait is trending downward, it provides a window to solidify your medical record. Because the panel of judges shows a moderate spread in approval rates, your preparation should focus on building a case that addresses the specific limitations a vocational expert will evaluate. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
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Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 7-month wait time, you have a period to ensure your medical file is complete. Start by gathering all records from your recent doctor visits, as these are the most critical pieces of evidence for your hearing. You should also prepare a detailed list of your medications and their side effects, along with a log of your daily activities that illustrates exactly how your condition prevents you from working. During your hearing, a vocational expert will likely testify about whether jobs exist for someone with your specific limitations. You will have the opportunity to question this expert, which is often a vital part of the proceeding. Evidence submission deadlines are strict, so ensure your documents are filed well before your date.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 5 judges at this office shows a moderate spread in outcomes, with individual allowance rates ranging from 28% to 64%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one weighs medical evidence differently. This variation makes it essential to build a robust, objective file that can stand up to scrutiny regardless of which judge presides over your session.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 36 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it based on weak documentation. An attorney who understands the Stockton panel can help you anticipate the specific concerns of the judges here and prepare you for the vocational testimony that often determines the outcome.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy for your hearing day, including the office address on W. March Lane and the current operating hours.
Most Favorable Judges
Stockton, CA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sanya Hill-Maxion | 83% | 71% | 13,899 | |
| 2 | Judith A. Kopec | 61% | 52% | 16,576 | |
| 3 | Eva Chan | 57% | 32% | 5,895 | |
| 4 | Trevor Skarda | 56% | 53% | 27,509 | |
| 5 | Danny Pittman | 55% | 47% | 3,718 | |
| 6 | Daniel G. Heely | 53% | 45% | 15,147 | |
| 7 | Jane M. Maccione | 51% | 43% | 14,535 | |
| 8 | Young L. Bechtold | 42% | 18% | 5,162 | |
| 9 | G. Ross Wheatley | 41% | 35% | 4,809 | |
| 10 | Vincent A. Misenti | 30% | 19% | 25,678 | |
| 11 | Sheila Walters | 23% | 20% | 7,545 |
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.