Between January 31, 2026, and February 3, 2026, the Commission experienced a lapse in appropriations. In light of the lapse, the Commission issued an order staying certain administrative proceedings. On February 4, 2026, the Commission issued an order lifting the stay and extending dates in the proceedings previously subject to the stay.

About

Administrative law judges (ALJs) serve as independent adjudicators who determine whether allegations against respondents in SEC enforcement proceedings are true. The judges conduct public hearings, issue subpoenas, hold conferences with parties, rule on motions, and rule on the admissibility of evidence.

ALJs prepare an initial decision that sets forth factual findings and legal conclusions while determining whether sanctions are warranted.

Learn more about the Office of Administrative Law Judges

Dean Metry bio photo

Dean Metry

Chief Administrative Law Judge

Contact the Office

202-551-6030

ALJ Orders

ALJs issue orders to schedule hearings, rule on motions, or otherwise communicate to parties involved in an administrative proceeding.

ALJ Initial Decisions

ALJs issue rulings interpreting and applying the law in contested administrative proceedings that the Commission has discretion to review.

Documents in Administrative Proceedings

The public has access to documents containing the principal pleadings, orders, and decisions in present or past SEC administrative proceedings.