Elkins Park maintains a 60% allowance rate, which is typical for hearing offices. With a steady 8-month wait time, you have a predictable window to organize your medical records. Because the panel of 13 judges shows a moderate spread in allowance rates, your success depends on building a file that clearly demonstrates your limitations to any judge on the panel. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? See if you qualify for representation before your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your hearing will likely last about an hour, during which an ALJ will review your claim. You should arrive with updated medical records that capture any changes in your condition since your initial denial. A Vocational Expert will often testify regarding the types of work available for someone with your specific physical or mental limitations. You have the right to question this expert to clarify how your symptoms prevent you from performing those jobs. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.
The Judges at This Office
The 13 judges at this office show a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 51% to 73%. While the median rate of 60% suggests a balanced approach, each judge weighs evidence differently. Because cases are assigned randomly, your preparation must focus on creating a robust, objective medical record that can withstand scrutiny regardless of which judge presides over your session.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
With a panel allowance spread of 22 points, the difference between an approval and a denial often comes down to how effectively your evidence is presented. An attorney helps you anticipate the specific questions a Vocational Expert will ask, ensuring your daily-activity logs and medical documentation are consistent. This level of preparation is what often separates successful claims from those that fall short.
About This Hearing Office
This office handles a high volume of cases, so keep these location and contact details accessible for your hearing day.
Most Favorable Judges
Elkins Park, PA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Henry Oliver | 82% | 70% | 8,706 | |
| 2 | James Garrett | 81% | 69% | 8,220 | |
| 3 | Eric Schwarz | 71% | 65% | 27,084 | |
| 4 | John F. Gehring | 69% | 59% | 10,284 | |
| 5 | Suanne S. Strauss | 67% | 57% | 8,056 | |
| 6 | Daniel L. Rubini | 66% | 56% | 6,657 | |
| 7 | Craig De Bernardis | 66% | 56% | 1,163 | |
| 8 | Raina Goods | 61% | 59% | 4,909 | |
| 9 | Vivian McAneney | 59% | 41% | 22,621 | |
| 10 | Jasper J. Bede | 59% | 50% | 8,067 | |
| 11 | Sandra Morales Price | 58% | 60% | 20,609 | |
| 12 | Elana Hollo | 58% | 53% | 24,375 | |
| 13 | Brady Carter | 58% | 62% | 6,330 | |
| 14 | Stuart Gauffreau | 58% | 61% | 26,309 | |
| 15 | Deborah Mande | 57% | 48% | 13,507 | |
| 16 | Kathleen McDade | 53% | 56% | 22,378 | |
| 17 | Jennifer M. Lash | 52% | 50% | 23,761 | |
| 18 | George C. Yatron | 52% | 44% | 19,903 | |
| 19 | Marc Silverman | 51% | 47% | 19,331 | |
| 20 | Jennifer Spector | 51% | 42% | 26,853 | |
| 21 | Margaret M. Gabell | 51% | 40% | 25,853 | |
| 22 | Luke Woltering | 50% | 42% | 25,003 | |
| 23 | Ryan Hoback | 49% | 42% | 13,916 | |
| 24 | Anne W. Chain | 48% | 41% | 7,844 | |
| 25 | Jay Marku | 46% | 39% | 14,869 |
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.