Judges whose most recent office on record is this one
The 12 judges whose most recent office on record is this one show a moderate spread in outcomes, with approval rates for individual ALJs clustering around a 51% median. Because random assignment determines which judge hears your case, you cannot choose your ALJ. Each judge weighs evidence differently, meaning your file must be robust enough to stand on its own regardless of the specific judge assigned to your hearing.
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Linda Thomasson | 66% | 4,214 | |
| 2 | Paula M. Martin | 66% | 4,207 | |
| 3 | S. Pines | 66% | 3,539 | |
| 4 | Derek Johnson | 62% | 3,077 | |
| 5 | Steve Lynch | 57% | 2,681 | |
| 6 | Richard Geib | 51% | 3,626 | |
| 7 | Jo Hoenninger | 50% | 2,973 | |
| 8 | Paul G. Robeck | 45% | 713 | |
| 9 | Vadim Mozyrsky | 42% | 3,125 | |
| 10 | Rudolph Murgo | 39% | 1,957 | |
| 11 | John Michaelsen | 36% | 2,343 | |
| 12 | Cynthia D. Rosa | 34% | 2,083 |
How long you'll wait
At Portland, the average wait from hearing request to written decision is 8 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 likely last 45 to 60 minutes, during which an ALJ will review your file and hear testimony. Because this office sees a moderate spread in judge approval rates, your preparation must be precise. You should update your medical records to include every visit since your initial denial, as these documents are the primary evidence the judge will weigh. A vocational expert will often testify about whether jobs exist for someone with your specific limitations, and you will have the chance to question them. Ensure your medication list and daily-activity logs are current, as these details help the judge understand your functional reality. Decisions are rarely made on the spot; you will typically receive a written notice by mail weeks after your appearance.
When a panel's approval rates span over 30 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it due to gaps in documentation. An attorney who understands the Portland panel can pressure-test your evidence against the specific standards these judges apply. This is the most effective way to ensure your claim is ready for the hearing room.
Field offices that route cases here
If your hearing is at Portland, 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 time for a hearing at this office is 8 months. This is slightly faster than the national average of 8.2 months, providing a predictable window to finalize your medical evidence. An attorney can help you ensure your case is ready during this time.
Judges are assigned to cases randomly, and you cannot request a specific judge. Because there is a moderate spread in approval rates across the panel, your best strategy is to ensure your medical records are comprehensive. An attorney can help you prepare for the specific requirements of this panel.
While not required, representation is highly recommended. Statistics show that represented claimants are more likely to be allowed benefits, as an attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the hearing process. An attorney can help you build a stronger case.
Bring updated medical records, a list of all current medications with their side effects, and a log of your daily activities. These documents provide the objective evidence needed to support your testimony. An attorney can help you organize these materials.
