Question 1

What happens at an SSDI hearing?

Accepted Answer

An SSDI hearing at the Lawrence, MA office is an informal proceeding before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). You'll present your case, answer questions about your condition and daily activities, and may have witnesses testify. A vocational expert typically testifies about available jobs. Hearings usually last 30-60 minutes. Having an attorney can help you prepare testimony and cross-examine experts.

Question 2

How long is the wait for a hearing at Lawrence, MA?

Accepted Answer

The current average wait time at the Lawrence, MA hearing office is 10 months from the date you request a hearing. The national average is 8 months.

Question 3

Can I choose which judge hears my case?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot choose your judge. Cases are assigned randomly at the hearing office. However, you can request a different judge if you have a valid reason, such as a conflict of interest. Knowing the judges at your hearing office and their tendencies can help your attorney prepare a strategy tailored to the judge assigned to your case.

Question 4

What does the approval rate mean for my case?

Accepted Answer

The 57% approval rate at Lawrence, MA is the share of applicants who get approved at the hearing stage. Your own outcome depends on the strength of your medical evidence, your attorney's preparation, and which judge is assigned to your case.

Rank	Judge	Approval Rate	Full Approval	Total Decisions
1	Baird, Jonathan P	73%	61%	26,902
2	Belford, Timothy	59%	43%	26,112
3	Dziepak, Anthony	56%	48%	25,726
4	Curley, Brian	54%	46%	8,948
5	Benson, John	49%	44%	21,862
6	Bush, Ellen P	46%	28%	23,503
7	French, Patricia M	42%	36%	4,162

Lawrence, MA Hearing Office

Most Favorable Judges

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Wait Time Trend

Nearest SSA Field Offices

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