Judges whose most recent office on record is this one
The 9 judges whose most recent office on record is this one show a moderate spread in approval rates, with outcomes ranging from 42% to 77% since 2016. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each weighs evidence differently. This variation makes thorough preparation essential, as your file must be strong enough to meet the standards of any judge on the bench.
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Joshua Pinkus | 77% | 822 | |
| 2 | Edward T. Bauer | 64% | 3,136 | |
| 3 | Judith M. Stolfo | 63% | 925 | |
| 4 | Payam Danialzadeh | 60% | 808 | |
| 5 | Addison C. Masengill | 54% | 3,683 | |
| 6 | Michael P. Breton | 53% | 1,598 | |
| 7 | Peter J. Martinelli | 48% | 1,107 | |
| 8 | Michael Hellman | 45% | 3,295 | |
| 9 | Kim K. Griswold | 42% | 3,375 |
How long you'll wait
At Springfield, the average wait from hearing request to written decision is 9 months— versus a national average of 8.2 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 proceeding where a judge will review your claim under oath. Because the wait time in Springfield is 9 months, you have a significant runway to update your medical records and document how your condition impacts your daily life. Ensure your medication list is current and includes notes on side effects, as these often influence the vocational expert testimony. This expert will be present to advise the judge on whether jobs exist that fit your specific physical or mental limitations. Submit all new evidence well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted. A clear, well-documented file is your strongest asset at this stage.
When a panel's approval rates span 35 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it due to gaps in documentation. While you wait for your date, you can use that time to pressure-test your case against the questions a vocational expert is likely to ask. Focusing on the specific requirements of your claim helps ensure your evidence is ready for the hearing room.
Field offices that route cases here
If your hearing is at Springfield, your case originated at one of the SSA field offices below — the local intake counter where you (or a representative) filed the initial application. SSA's published service areas route these offices' appeals here. 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 average wait for a hearing at this office is 9 months. This is a typical timeframe compared to the national average of 8.2 months. An attorney can help you understand how to use this time to strengthen your claim.
Cases are assigned randomly to the judges whose most recent office on record is this one. Because each judge weighs evidence differently, an attorney can help you prepare for the specific standards of the panel.
You generally cannot choose your judge. However, if you have a valid legal reason regarding a conflict of interest, an attorney can advise you on the proper procedure for a request.
While not required, having representation can help you navigate the process. An attorney can help you organize your medical evidence and prepare for your testimony.
