Judges whose most recent office on record is this one
The 11 judges whose most recent office on record is this one show a moderate spread in approval rates, with outcomes ranging from 47% to 75%. Because each ALJ weighs evidence differently, the specific judge assigned to your case can influence the process. While cases are assigned randomly, the variation across this panel means your preparation should be focused on creating a comprehensive, objective record that meets the highest standards of proof.
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | H. S. Williams | 75% | 1,426 | |
| 2 | William F. Taylor | 72% | 4,627 | |
| 3 | Renee S. Andrews-Turner | 67% | 3,921 | |
| 4 | Alfred M. Smith Jr. | 62% | 1,541 | |
| 5 | Frank L. Gregori | 61% | 2,650 | |
| 6 | David A. Ettinger | 60% | 2,604 | |
| 7 | Angele Pietrangelo | 58% | 4,041 | |
| 8 | Michelle L. Alexander | 53% | 976 | |
| 9 | Randolph W. Alden | 51% | 1,677 | |
| 10 | Jennifer B. Thomas | 51% | 3,624 | |
| 11 | Robert Martin | 47% | 3,929 |
How long you'll wait
At Nashville, the average wait from hearing request to written decision is 7.5 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 is a formal proceeding where an ALJ will review your case. Because the 11 judges whose most recent office on record is this one show a moderate spread in approval rates, your file must be robust enough to stand on its own regardless of which judge is assigned. Start by gathering all medical records generated since your initial denial, as these are the most critical pieces of evidence. You should also prepare a detailed log of your daily activities and medication side effects to explain how your condition prevents full-time work. A vocational expert will likely testify about available jobs, and you will have the opportunity to question them. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.
With a 7.5-month wait, you have a valuable runway to strengthen your file before you step into the hearing room. You can use this time to identify gaps in your medical history and prepare for the specific questions a vocational expert will ask about your ability to perform past work. When approval rates vary across the panel, understanding how to present evidence to different judges is a significant advantage.
Field offices that route cases here
If your hearing is at Nashville, 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 Nashville office is 7.5 months. This is faster than the national average of 8.2 months, providing a steady timeline for you to prepare your case. An attorney can help you ensure your evidence is ready within this timeframe.
Cases are assigned randomly to the 11 judges whose most recent office on record is this one. Because each judge weighs evidence differently, you should review your file with an attorney to ensure it is ready for any member of the panel. An attorney can help you prepare for the specific approach of the judge assigned to you.
Generally, you cannot choose your judge. However, if there is a documented conflict of interest, you may be able to request a change. An attorney can help you evaluate your situation and advise on the best path forward.
While not required, having representation is recommended. Represented claimants are often better positioned to succeed, as an attorney can help you organize your medical evidence and prepare you for the testimony of the vocational expert. An attorney can help you navigate the hearing process.
