Donlon v. Astrue

U.S. District Court, WDNY

Social Security

Disability — Gainful Work

Donlon v. Astrue
10-CV-6577
Judge Telesca

Background: The plaintiff brought an action to challenge the commissioner of Social Security’s determination that denied the plaintiff’s claim for disability and disability insurance benefits. The ALJ determined that the plaintiff was not disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act. The defendant moved for a judgment on the pleadings.

Ruling: The district court held that the ALJ’s decision was supported by substantial evidence and granted the defendant’s motion. The court found that the plaintiff’s psychological disability (including, inter alia, post-traumatic stress disorder), had not impaired his ability to carry out a full range of physical activities allowing him to work.

Peter A. Gorton of Lachman & Gorton for the plaintiff; Kathryn L. Smith, U.S. Attorney’s Office, for the defendant