I-1-8-1.Role of the Division of Quality Service

Last Update: 4/12/13 (Transmittal I-1-64)

The Division of Quality Service (DQS) in the Office of Hearings Operations (OHO) is responsible for receiving, reviewing, and investigating allegations of unfairness, prejudice, partiality, bias, misconduct, discrimination, or its equivalent (“allegations”) about administrative law judges (ALJs). After acknowledging the complaint and reviewing an allegation(s), DQS then determines whether further action is warranted. DQS fulfills its responsibility completely outside of the adjudication process, and its actions are not incorporated into the findings or conclusion of any particular case. See Social Security Ruling (SSR) 13-1p: Titles II and XVI: Agency Processes For Addressing Allegations of Unfairness, Prejudice, Partiality, Bias, Misconduct, or Discrimination by Administrative Law Judges (ALJs).

NOTE:

DQS will collect, track, and review all complaints received if the requirements under HALLEX I-1-8-4 are met, even if a complaint relating to the same conduct was also filed with the Appeals Council or under the civil rights process. See SSR 13-1p.