With an allowance rate of 46%, Wilkes-Barre aligns with national norms for SSDI hearing offices. While the 8-month wait is typical, the panel of 11 judges shows a moderate spread in outcomes, meaning your specific evidence carries significant weight. Use the time before your hearing to organize your medical records and prepare for the testimony the judge will require. An attorney can help you prepare your case for the hearing.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
Your hearing will involve a judge reviewing your claim and hearing testimony. Because the wait time has recently risen to 8 months, you have a window to ensure your medical records are complete and up to date. Bring a detailed list of your medications, including side effects, and a log of your daily activities to help the judge understand your limitations. A vocational expert will often testify about whether jobs exist that you can perform given your restrictions. You can question this expert to clarify how your specific health issues prevent you from working. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted. You will receive the final decision by mail after the hearing concludes.
The Judges at This Office
The 11 judges at this office show a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 23% to 62% with a median of 49%. 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 who presides over your session.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
When a panel's allowance rates span nearly 40 points, your file must be robust enough that no judge can dismiss it due to gaps in documentation. While you wait for your hearing date, you can identify the specific medical evidence that addresses the vocational expert's likely questions. A thorough review of your file now can prevent surprises when you finally sit before the judge.
About This Hearing Office
Here are the location details and operating hours for the Wilkes-Barre office to help you plan for your hearing day.
Most Favorable Judges
Wilkes-Barre, PA
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Michele Stolls | 59% | 41% | 27,020 | |
| 2 | Edward L. Brady | 57% | 49% | 28,876 | |
| 3 | Richard Zack | 56% | 48% | 14,993 | |
| 4 | Charles A. Dominick | 52% | 50% | 19,366 | |
| 5 | Timothy Wing | 51% | 43% | 23,066 | |
| 6 | Therese A. Hardiman | 51% | 60% | 20,856 | |
| 7 | Gerard W. Langan | 50% | 37% | 27,798 | |
| 8 | Frank Barletta | 49% | 43% | 27,352 | |
| 9 | Mike Oleyar | 48% | 44% | 17,134 | |
| 10 | Jarrod Tranguch | 42% | 30% | 26,449 | |
| 11 | Paula Garrety | 40% | 34% | 15,503 | |
| 12 | Michelle Wolfe | 29% | 24% | 26,781 | |
| 13 | Daniel Balutis | 28% | 17% | 24,154 |
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.