[dragon13]

ok I had applied for SSDI I have all my work credits etc. I was denied twice and had my ALJ hearing by phone which was granted I suffer from major depression, anxiety, panic attacks and phobias I went to their dr long before the hearing.

The judge seemed very understanding I did not have an attorney and they did grant my phone hearing vs having to drive a long way. She said a VE was in the room and everything was being recorded I went into details about my limitations and answered all questions asked. She said she was pretty certain she came up with a decision but needed proof of an ER visit.

I also explained all my meds im on and told her about the side effects she ended the call with it was nice to meet you etc the VE never spoke

Today I got all the documents before she had to subpoena them I figured I would be proactive I also submitted more substance with other documents can anyone tell me if this is a good sign...she told me the letter of decision would be mailed to me, she didn't even question the VE about other potential work

[dragon13]

I also have Lyme Disease

[dragon13]

after calling the courthouse the alj didn't feel the need to have a VE in the room it was just the court recorder....is this a good sign for a favorable decision???

[JessLynn418]

Originally Posted by dragon13

after calling the courthouse the alj didn't feel the need to have a VE in the room it was just the court recorder....is this a good sign for a favorable decision???

I'm currently going through the appeal process myself. I'm not sure if it is a good sign, but to me, it seems like it may be. I will cross my fingers that you get a letter very soon and it's a favorable outcome for you!

~Jess

[dragon13]

I appreciate your well wishes and wish we could know for sure...now its the hurry up and wait stage I will keep yall posted fingers crossed, and best of luck to you as well!

[dragon13]

I am at the hurry up and wait stage the judge hasn't gotten the last pc of evidence yet in hand but I have read this could or could not mean a good sign...most judges already have their award or denial in mind and she said she was pretty sure on her decision just needed a file stating I was at the ER does this sound promising?? I faxed her a copy plus more backbone to my case the very same day...I didn't go in w an attorney I went alone on my phone hearing and the judge may have had a poker face on but seemed genuine?? any help is greatly appreciated....stressin

[dragon13]

I am looking for anyone with a similar experience and what the outcome of your hearing was thanks so much....worried sick

[Mz Migraine]

had my ALJ hearing by phone

WOW! Things have really changed in N.J.
Because of N.J. SSD backlog back when I had my ALJ hearing -2006, the South Jersey hearings where held in an empty Home Depot building in Voorhees instead of Trenton. Back then, the state called back "RETIRED" judges just to speed things up. VE was at my 2 1/2 - 3 hour hearing.

I don't know what determines of VE at an ALJ hearing. I "think" it depends on a number of things:
1 - your age
2 - type of job
3 - type of disability
4 - length of time (years) you have been employed (legally).

Not all ALJ hearings are the same. No need to stress out & make your health worse than what it is. These hearings can go either way. Even when you have all the necessary documentations & your file (medical) is up to par. However the good news is that the "SUCCESS" rate is greater for a "FULLY FAVORABLE" decision if you have an ALJ hearing. If you do lose, you can file at the Federal level.

I don't think you will find others here who have had their ALJ hearing over the phone. That's a new one on me.

Anywho, I wish you the best of luck!