The administrative law judge (ALJ) must perform a prehearing review of the evidence to determine whether the evidence is sufficient for a full and fair inquiry into the matters at issue or if additional action is needed in the case.

In conducting a prehearing case review, the ALJ will evaluate the claim(s) file to determine whether it is necessary to:

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  Issue a formal or informal remand. See HALLEX HA 01250.010 and HA 01250.012;

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  Obtain evidence the claimant informed the agency about that relates to whether he or she is blind or disabled. See HALLEX HA 01250.013;

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  Obtain updated medical evidence or testimony from the claimant's medical source. See HALLEX HA 01250.014;

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  Obtain technical or specialized medical tests or opinions (consultative examinations and tests). See HALLEX HA 01250.020;

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  Obtain medical or vocational expert testimony or interrogatories. See HALLEX HA 01250.030 through HA 01250.061;

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  Obtain evidence from non-medical sources. See HALLEX HA 01250.062 through HA 01250.077;

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  Obtain evidence by issuing a subpoena on his or her own motion or at the request of a claimant. See HALLEX HA 01250.078 through HALLEX HA 01250.082;

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  Resolve conflicts or differences in the evidence;

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  Determine the need for a prehearing conference. See HALLEX HA 01210.075; and

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  Determine whether the case meets the criteria for expedited processing or an on-the-record decision. See HALLEX HA 01210.040.