Opinion ID: 700179
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Duty to Fully Develop the Record

Text: 14 Dailey argues that the ALJ failed to fully develop the record by failing to inquire as to her conservative non-surgical back treatments and her pain and anti-depressant medications and their lack of effectiveness. The ALJ has a duty to develop the facts fully and fairly, particularly where the claimant is unrepresented by counsel. Driggins v. Harris, 657 F.2d 187, 188 (8th Cir. 1981). Our inquiry here is whether Dailey was prejudiced or treated unfairly by the manner in which the ALJ did or did not develop the record. Onstad v. Shalala, 999 F.2d 1232, 1234 (8th Cir. 1993). Absent a showing of unfairness or prejudice, we will not remand this claim. Id. 15 We conclude that the ALJ fully and fairly developed the record. The record includes extensive testimony on the part of Dailey, the testimony of an additional witness, and medical evidence covering her nineteen-month treatment. As such, we find no unfairness or prejudice. See Id.