Lansing's 7-month wait is faster than the 8-month national average, giving you a predictable timeline to finalize your medical record. With an office-wide allowance rate of 52%, your success depends on the quality of evidence you present. Because the panel shows variation in how judges weigh testimony, an attorney can help you prepare your file to meet the specific requirements of your hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing date.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Hearings at this office typically involve an ALJ reviewing your file and hearing testimony. You must bring your photo ID and any updated medical records or treatment notes generated since your last denial. Because the SSA restricts last-minute evidence submissions, ensure your file is complete well before your date. A vocational expert will likely testify regarding your ability to perform past work or other jobs in the national economy. You or your attorney will have the opportunity to question this expert, which is often the most important part of the proceeding. A final decision is rarely issued on the spot; you will receive a written notice by mail later.
The Judges at This Office
The panel at this office consists of 5 judges who show a moderate spread in their allowance rates, ranging from 41% to 79%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one weighs medical evidence and vocational testimony differently. This variation makes it essential that your file is robust enough to stand on its own merits regardless of who presides over your hearing.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
With a 38-point spread between the most and least lenient judges on this panel, your preparation must account for the possibility of drawing a judge who requires a high evidentiary bar. You can navigate these differences by identifying the specific limitations in your medical record that a vocational expert cannot easily dismiss. By building a consistent narrative of your functional capacity now, you ensure your case is ready for any judge at this office.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy for your hearing day, including the office address and operating hours for the Lansing location.
Most Favorable Judges
Lansing, MI
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Christopher Ambrose | 66% | 72% | 26,452 | |
| 2 | James J. Kent | 62% | 53% | 28,462 | |
| 3 | Lawrence E. Blatnik | 60% | 51% | 18,907 | |
| 4 | Thomas L. Walters | 59% | 50% | 7,849 | |
| 5 | Amy L. Rosenberg | 58% | 53% | 25,587 | |
| 6 | Thomas L. English | 54% | 46% | 953 | |
| 7 | David Read | 51% | 35% | 24,270 | |
| 8 | Brian Burgtorf | 41% | 34% | 16,010 | |
| 9 | Paul W. Jones | 36% | 35% | 30,259 |
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.