Your hearing outcome in Hattiesburg depends on the judge assigned to your case, as allowance rates across the panel range from 29% to 86%. With an office-wide allowance rate of 48%, you must ensure your medical file is comprehensive enough to meet the requirements of any judge on the panel. An attorney can help you identify the specific medical evidence required to bridge that gap.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your upcoming hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your 7.5-month wait is a critical window to build a file that speaks for itself. Start by gathering all medical records generated since your initial denial, as these are the most persuasive documents an ALJ will review. You should also compile a daily-activity log and a list of medication side effects, which help the vocational expert determine if you can perform any work. Evidence-submission deadlines are strict; once your hearing date is set, you have limited time to add new information. During the hearing, you will testify under oath while the judge and expert assess your functional limitations. A clear, documented record ensures you are prepared for the questions that follow.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 10 judges in Hattiesburg shows a wide spread in decision-making, with allowance rates ranging from 29% to 86%. Because of this variation, the judge assigned to your case influences the outcome. Judges are assigned randomly, and each weighs medical evidence differently, so your preparation must be thorough enough to satisfy the varying standards on the panel.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span 57 points, your file must be robust enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. You can treat the 7.5-month wait as an opportunity to pressure-test your medical evidence against the requirements of the Social Security Administration. By anticipating the vocational expert's testimony early, you can avoid the common pitfalls that lead to denials.
About This Hearing Office
With 2,986 dispositions processed in the latest reporting period, this office is a hub for Mississippi claimants. Keep these location and contact details handy for your hearing day.
Most Favorable Judges
Hattiesburg, MS
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | James S. Elkins | 75% | 81% | 22,345 | |
| 2 | Douglas Gilmer | 63% | 34% | 24,673 | |
| 3 | Brian Jones | 56% | 54% | 21,069 | |
| 4 | Charles C. Pearce | 51% | 43% | 8,699 | |
| 5 | Wendy Hollingsworth | 48% | 57% | 18,488 | |
| 6 | William C. Grayson | 43% | 40% | 22,884 | |
| 7 | Lori S. Grayson | 41% | 36% | 20,055 | |
| 8 | Felicia D. Burkes | 29% | 27% | 27,538 | |
| 9 | Lanier Williams | 28% | 21% | 22,893 | |
| 10 | Laurie H. Porciello | 26% | 19% | 26,306 | |
| 11 | Michael D. Harbart | 25% | 28% | 22,457 |
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.