Judges whose most recent office on record is this one
Approval rates across the panel show a moderate spread, with judges' rates ranging from 46% to 72% based on records since 2016. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each ALJ weighs evidence differently. This variation means your file must be strong enough to stand on its own merits regardless of which judge is assigned to your hearing.
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Denzel R. Busick | 72% | 3,954 | |
| 2 | Brenda Rosten | 64% | 4,582 | |
| 3 | Richard Hlaudy | 58% | 3,672 | |
| 4 | Chris Stuber | 55% | 3,902 | |
| 5 | Christel Ambuehl | 51% | 3,598 | |
| 6 | Lyle Olson | 49% | 1,758 | |
| 7 | Hallie E. Larsen | 46% | 3,095 |
How long you'll wait
At Fargo, the average wait from hearing request to written decision is 7 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 will typically last about an hour, during which an ALJ will review your file and hear testimony. You should bring an updated list of all medications, including side effects, and a log of your daily activities to show how your condition limits your work capacity. Because the evidence-submission deadline is strict, ensure all medical records from your recent treatment are filed well before the date. A vocational expert will likely testify about jobs that might fit your profile, and you will have the opportunity to question them. The final decision will arrive by mail several weeks after the hearing concludes.
With a 7-month wait, the time between your denial and your hearing is a critical runway for strengthening your file. When a panel shows a 26-point spread in approval rates, your documentation must be precise enough to address the specific concerns of any judge on the bench. This preparation ensures you are ready to address the vocational expert's questions and the ALJ's inquiries.
Field offices that route cases here
If your hearing is at Fargo, 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 the Fargo office is 7 months, which is faster than the 8.2-month national average. This timeline has remained steady in recent months. An attorney can help you understand how this wait time impacts your case strategy.
Cases are assigned randomly to the judges whose most recent office on record is Fargo. Because you cannot select your judge, it is essential to have a well-documented file that addresses your specific medical limitations. An attorney can help you prepare for the specific requirements of an ALJ hearing.
In most cases, you cannot request a different judge. If you have concerns about your assigned ALJ, discuss them with an attorney who can evaluate your options for presenting your evidence effectively.
While not required, having an attorney can help you gather necessary medical evidence and prepare you for the questions you will face during your hearing. An attorney can help you navigate the hearing process and advocate for your claim.
