Morgantown's hearing wait has trended downward to 7.5 months, moving faster than the national average of 8 months. With an office-wide allowance rate of 58%, your outcome depends on the quality of your medical evidence. Because the panel shows a moderate spread in approval rates, your prep should focus on creating a record that is clear and compelling regardless of which judge is assigned to your case. An attorney can help you prepare for your hearing.
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Check My BenefitsPreparing for Your Hearing
With a 7.5-month wait, you have a specific window to strengthen your file before your hearing. Your primary goal is to ensure your medical records are current and include detailed notes on how your symptoms limit your daily activities. During the hearing, an ALJ will preside while a vocational expert testifies about jobs that may fit your physical or mental restrictions. You will have the opportunity to question this expert, which is often the most critical moment of the proceeding. Ensure all new evidence is submitted well before the deadline, as last-minute additions are restricted. A final decision will arrive by mail in the weeks following your appearance.
The Judges at This Office
The six judges at this office show a moderate spread in their allowance rates, which range from 47% to 76%. Because cases are assigned randomly, you cannot choose your judge, and each will weigh your evidence differently. This variation means your file must be robust enough to stand on its own merits, as the judge's individual perspective will be the final factor in your approval.
Why Representation Matters at the Hearing Stage
Hearings at this office move faster than the national average, leaving less time to correct gaps in your medical history once your date is set. When a panel's allowance rates span nearly 30 points, your file must be strong enough that no judge can dismiss it on weak documentation. Focusing on the completeness of your medical record is the most effective way to prepare for your hearing.
About This Hearing Office
Keep these details handy for the day of your hearing at the Morgantown office.
Most Favorable Judges
Morgantown, WV
| Rank | Judge | Approval Rate | Full Approval | Total Decisions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Susan Preston | 66% | 72% | 21,333 | |
| 2 | Regina Carpenter | 55% | 43% | 25,087 | |
| 3 | Brian Crockett | 54% | 55% | 22,456 | |
| 4 | Juan E. Milanes | 50% | 38% | 19,231 | |
| 5 | Karl Alexander | 50% | 43% | 4,604 | |
| 6 | Jeffrey P. La Vicka | 49% | 51% | 24,962 | |
| 7 | Karen B. Kostol | 49% | 42% | 22,239 | |
| 8 | William R. Stanley | 46% | 39% | 16,894 | |
| 9 | Nikki Hall | 21% | 18% | 14,280 |
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.