Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
The Administrative Law Judge, or ALJ, is an appointed judge that specializes in administrative law with work focused on understanding disability law, regulations, and related matters. These judges work for the Office of Hearing Operations (OHO) and their job is to make rulings on disability claims. The ALJ evaluates claims for disability benefits to determine if you are eligible to ongoing benefits and whether or not you’re eligible for past due benefits. Prior to your hearing, the judge will receive and review your Social Security file (also known as exhibit file). During the hearing, the judge will take any new information you or your advocate present and ask questions about your disability and how it affects your ability to work.