(SS) Gutierrez v. Commissioner of Social Security

INTRODUCTION

19 Edith Chavez Gutierrez (“Plaintiff”) seeks judicial review of a final decision of the 20 Commissioner of Social Security (“Commissioner” or “Defendant”) denying her application for 21 disability benefits pursuant to the Social Security Act. The matter is currently before the Court on 22 the parties’ briefs, which were submitted, without oral argument, to Magistrate Judge Stanley A. 23 Boone.1 24 Plaintiff requests the decision of Commissioner be vacated and benefits be awarded, arguing 25 the ALJ erred by failing to consider the unadjudicated period; failing to properly determine res judicata 26 under Chavez; failing to address the combination of impairments in the residual functional capacity 27 1 The parties have consented to the jurisdiction of the United States Magistrate Judge and this action has been assigned assessment; and failing to provide clear and convincing reasons to disregard Plaintiff’s symptom testimony. For the reasons explained herein, Plaintiff’s Social Security appeal shall be denied. II. BACKGROUND A. Procedural History Plaintiff…