Dayton's 70% allowance rate is high, suggesting that well-documented claims often succeed at this office. While the 9-month wait is slightly longer than the national average of 8 months, the trend is currently moving downward. Because the panel of judges shows a moderate spread in their individual approval rates, your success depends on presenting evidence that addresses the specific limitations an ALJ will weigh. An attorney can help you organize your medical history to meet this standard.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 9-month wait, you have a significant window to ensure your medical records are complete and up to date. The most critical step is submitting all new evidence well before the hearing, as last-minute additions are restricted. During your hearing, an ALJ will preside, and a vocational expert will likely testify about available jobs. You must be prepared to answer questions about your daily activities and how your symptoms prevent you from working. Because the panel at this office shows meaningful variation in how they weigh evidence, your testimony must be consistent with your medical records. A decision will arrive by mail after the proceedings conclude.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 6 judges at this office shows a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 51% to 80%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each one 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 case.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Hearings at this office move at a pace that allows for thorough preparation, yet the moderate variation across the panel means you cannot afford to leave gaps in your documentation. When a judge has the discretion to interpret your limitations, the difference between a denial and an approval often comes down to how clearly your medical records align with the vocational expert's criteria. You can focus on ensuring your evidence is ready for the hearing room.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these location details and office hours handy as you finalize your plans for your hearing date.
Most Favorable Judges
Dayton, OH
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heidi Southern | 68% | 70% | 20,292 | |
| 2 | Kevin R. Barnes | 67% | 74% | 28,024 | |
| 3 | Laura S. Twilley | 60% | 51% | 3,850 | |
| 4 | Stuart Adkins | 55% | 47% | 18,645 | |
| 5 | Mark Hockensmith | 52% | 100% | 23,370 | |
| 6 | Gregory G. Kenyon | 48% | 45% | 29,856 | |
| 7 | Elizabeth A. Motta | 44% | 37% | 6,974 |
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.