
Federal Administrative Law Judges
Federal Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) are judicial officers who preside over hearings and disputes involving federal agencies. They evaluate evidence, interpret regulations, and make impartial decisions on issues like Social Security benefits, immigration, or benefit programs. ALJs operate within federal agencies but act independently, ensuring fair proceedings. Their role is similar to a judge in court, but their hearings are administrative in nature, focusing on compliance with federal rules rather than criminal or civil court cases. Their decisions can often be appealed to federal courts, providing an additional check on their authority.