Middlesboro's 7-month wait time is faster than the national average, giving you a focused window to finalize your medical evidence. With an office-wide allowance rate of 52%, outcomes here are typical for the hearing stage. Because the panel shows variation in how judges weigh evidence, your success depends on building a record that anticipates the questions of a vocational expert before you step into the hearing room. An attorney can help you prepare your case to meet these requirements.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 7-month wait, you have a steady runway to ensure your medical file is complete before your hearing date. You should prioritize gathering updated records from the last few months, as these are often the most critical pieces of evidence for an ALJ. Ensure your medication list and a log of your daily activities are submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute evidence is restricted. The judge will preside over the session, and you will receive a written decision by mail several weeks later.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at this office consists of 8 judges with allowance rates that cluster around a 50% median. With a spread ranging from 38% to 70%, there is meaningful variation in how individual judges weigh evidence. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, making it essential that your file is robust enough to stand up to any member of the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Hearings at this office come up faster than the national average, leaving less time to correct gaps in your medical history once your date is set. Preparing your file early allows you to address specific standards of the ALJ panel. By identifying missing documentation early, you avoid the risk of presenting an incomplete case to a judge who may be skeptical of undocumented claims.
About This Hearing Office
By the time your hearing arrives, keep these office details handy for your visit to the hearing site in Middlesboro.
Most Favorable Judges
Middlesboro, KY
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stacy Gray | 78% | 63% | 3,016 | |
| 2 | Donald A. Rising | 59% | 50% | 8,360 | |
| 3 | Mary E. Richardson | 53% | 45% | 16,834 | |
| 4 | Melinda L. Dula | 51% | 30% | 25,678 | |
| 5 | Todd Spangler | 49% | 40% | 20,680 | |
| 6 | Jonathan H. Leiner | 48% | 41% | 11,921 | |
| 7 | Tommye C. Mangus | 46% | 52% | 31,402 | |
| 8 | Stacy Appleton | 46% | 34% | 6,735 |
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.