About London L.
Judge London L. Steverson is a retired Administrative Law Judge who dedicated 20 years of his career to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in Downey, California. Joining the SSA in 1989, he became known for his expertise in disability cases, adjudicating over 10,000 cases during his tenure. His retirement in 2009 marked the end of a significant chapter in his professional life, characterized by a commitment to fair and thorough evaluations of disability claims. Before his impactful role at the SSA, Judge Steverson had a distinguished career in the United States Coast Guard. In 1964, he made history as one of the first two African Americans appointed as a Cadet to the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut.
He graduated in 1968, earning a degree that would serve as a foundation for his future endeavors. His service included time aboard the USCGC Glacier (WAGB-4) and a role as a Search and Rescue Operations Officer in Juneau, Alaska, where he developed his leadership skills in high-pressure situations. In addition to his operational roles, Judge Steverson contributed significantly to diversity initiatives within the Coast Guard. He served as Chief of the Minority Recruiting Section at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he worked to promote inclusivity and representation within the service. His efforts in this area were instrumental in shaping policies that encouraged minority participation in the Coast Guard, reflecting his commitment to social justice long before it became a widely discussed topic. Following his retirement from the SSA, Judge Steverson authored "From U.S.
Coast Guard to U.S. Tiger," a book published to provide insights into the Five-Step Disability Evaluation Process. This work critiques the Social Security System while offering guidance to those handling the requirements of disability claims. His writing reflects a understanding of both the legal framework and the human experiences behind disability evaluations. In 2020, Judge Steverson was appointed to the Prince William County Racial and Social Justice Commission, where he began serving a term from December 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023. This role allows him to continue advocating for social justice and equity in his community.
Judge Steverson holds a Juris Doctor degree from The George Washington University Law School and is admitted to practice law in New York. His license status with the Virginia State Bar is currently inactive. He resides in Haymarket, Virginia, where he remains engaged in community service and advocacy efforts.
