Average age of new ALJs

[johnthornton]

According to a letter distributed by the AALJ, the most recent class of Social Security administrative law judges had an average age of 56.7 years.

[oldtimer]

I was 44 when I became an ALJ; I felt neither young nor old in my class, so I imagine that, even if the reported average is accurate, it may be skewed by a few new judges in their 60s. Or it might just be a little exaggerated, in order for the AALJ to lobby more effectively for the proposed pension, i.e., a better plan is necessary because judges are older than other federal employees when hired.

[learnedhand]

Look around at the newer judges in your office. All the new judges I've seen over the last several years have been over 50, most in the 53-56 age range.

[oldtimer]

Actually, the 3 newest judges in my office were in their 40's.

[workdrone]

Youngest judge in my office was 45 when hired. 3 others that were hired most recently were all in their mid 50s.

[doctorwho]

Just as an aside, the oldest ALJ I know of is 93 years old. And, I know at least three applicants that are 40 years old and made it through the cut. Most of the ALJs I know are in there 60s and 70s.

[chieftain]

In view of this discussion of age, the question on my mind is, all other things being equal, is the 50-something or the 40-something going to fare better in the selection process? I can see arguments either way.

[shadow]

I don't have any inside information, but am rooting for the old codgers [being one myself - 57]. Of course, Chief, I'm also rooting for the vets, for the same reason. Guess we all have our own fish to fry. Best of luck to everyone, though. ;D

[judicature]

Compared to someone who is 93, we are all young pups.

[anotheroldtimer]

The further they have gone down on the register, the younger it seems the new judges are. But unlike the allegations of certain factions, the quality of the newer judges seems very good. I base this on being in the training cadre for the last five classes.

[ALJD]

shadow said:

Best of luck to everyone, though. ;D

Yup, life is often random, and while we all have our own fishes to fry, treating everyone with respect and courtesy makes the ups and downs a bit more bearable. Well put.