Reported / Citable
Background
Danella A. brought an action against Frank Bisignano, Commissioner of Social Security Administration. The court used the plaintiff’s first name and last initial pursuant to federal judiciary guidance addressing privacy concerns in Social Security and immigration opinions.
On July 24, 2026, the Commissioner filed a certified electronic copy of the transcript of the administrative proceeding. The court then addressed the briefing schedule governing the Social Security appeal.
The Court’s Holding
The court found good cause to extend the deadlines provided by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure’s Supplemental Rules for Social Security Actions Under 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), citing the complex nature of Social Security appeals. It ordered the plaintiff to file her brief and requested relief by September 22, 2026; the Commissioner to file his brief by November 23, 2026; and the plaintiff to file any reply by December 21, 2026.
The scheduling order binds the parties and may be modified only upon a showing of good cause. Any motion seeking an extension must be filed at least three business days before the applicable deadline.
Key Takeaways
- The order sets the briefing schedule; it does not decide the merits of the plaintiff’s challenge.
- The plaintiff’s opening brief is due September 22, 2026, the Commissioner’s brief is due November 23, 2026, and the plaintiff’s reply is due December 21, 2026.
- A party seeking more time must show good cause and move for an extension at least three business days before the relevant deadline.
Why It Matters
The order establishes the timetable for presenting the parties’ arguments in this Social Security appeal. Counsel must comply with the specified deadlines and request any extension in advance under the court’s stated procedure.