With an allowance rate of 55%, Fort Worth sits in line with national performance trends for SSDI hearings. While the 8-month wait matches the national average, the moderate spread in judge allowance rates means your specific medical evidence is the most important factor in your success. An attorney can help you ensure your limitations are clearly documented for the ALJ.
Heading to an ALJ hearing? Get a free case review to prepare for your hearing.
Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With an 8-month wait, you have time to ensure your medical record is complete before your hearing date. You should prioritize gathering updated medical records, a detailed list of medication side effects, and a log of your daily activities that highlights your functional limitations. The hearing typically lasts about 45 to 60 minutes, where an ALJ will preside and a vocational expert will often testify regarding available work. You have the opportunity to question this expert, which is a critical moment to clarify why your specific impairments prevent you from maintaining gainful employment. Ensure all evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted.
The Judges at This Office
The panel of 10 judges at this office shows moderate variation, with allowance rates ranging from 42% to 64%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each weighs evidence differently based on their own judicial interpretation. This spread 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 steady pace, leaving little room for error once your date is set. When a panel's allowance rates span over 20 points, your file must be robust enough that no judge can dismiss it due to gaps in documentation. Focusing on the quality of your medical evidence and testimony remains the most effective way to navigate the hearing process.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these office details handy for the day of your hearing at the Federal Office Building.
Most Favorable Judges
Fort Worth, TX
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Larry C. Marcy | 63% | 54% | 19,237 | |
| 2 | Herbert J. Green | 58% | 49% | 12,517 | |
| 3 | Jack W. Raines | 55% | 47% | 14,218 | |
| 4 | Dan Dane | 53% | 45% | 1,614 | |
| 5 | Laura Roberts | 53% | 47% | 20,210 | |
| 6 | Sherrill A. L. Carvalho | 51% | 37% | 27,855 | |
| 7 | Christopher Van Dyck | 51% | 27% | 25,007 | |
| 8 | Darren Hamner | 51% | 55% | 30,739 | |
| 9 | Carol K. Bowen | 49% | 54% | 28,064 | |
| 10 | Brock Cima | 45% | 46% | 27,720 | |
| 11 | William H. Helsper | 43% | 37% | 5,383 | |
| 12 | Marjorie Panter | 37% | 35% | 26,052 | |
| 13 | Ward D. King | 36% | 31% | 11,005 | |
| 14 | Kevin Batik | 30% | 41% | 28,107 |
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.