How do I participate?

OAH will mail you a Notice of Hearing. It will include the date, time, and information about how to participate in your hearing.

Read your Notice of Hearing carefully. Follow all instructions closely.

You are encouraged to contact the Appeals Coordinator to discuss your case. Their name and phone number can be found in your Notice of Hearing. You may be able to resolve some issues before the hearing.

Can I try to settle (resolve) the case prior to the hearing?

Yes. Sometimes, the DSHS WA Cares program may need some information from you in order to resolve your case. At any time before the hearing, you can contact the Appeals Coordinator to try and resolve any of the hearing issues. The Notice of Hearing should include the name and contact information for the Appeals Coordinator. 

What do I need to know for my hearing?

Please follow these guidelines for phone hearings:

• If using a cell phone, make sure the battery is fully charged.
• Have all call blocking features disabled.
• Try to have good, clear reception.
• Be in a quiet location. If the judge cannot hear you, your case may have to be rescheduled.
• Have a pen and paper available for note taking.
• Have the DSHS WA Cares program documents and your documents with you during the hearing.
• You must not be driving during the hearing.
• Do not multitask. The judge will expect your full attention.

How long will my hearing last?

The length of your hearing will depend on the type of issues involved in your case.

Many hearings last between one and two hours.

What documents will I receive?

Your Notice of Hearing will include a Hearing Rights Summary. You can refer to it for more information.

The Appeals Coordinator will also send you a copy of the documents they will present at the hearing. Read these documents carefully. You should have these documents with you during the hearing.

What if I have documents to present at the hearing?

Before the hearing, you must send OAH any documents you would like to present at the hearing. Send documents at least 5 business days before your hearing. You must also send a copy to the Appeals Coordinator.

If you think the Appeals Coordinator has documents that will help you, contact them before the hearing. Their address and phone number can be found in your Notice of Hearing.

Write your docket number on all documents so they are put into your file. Do not wait to submit your documents. It is important to follow these instructions. If you do not, your documents might not be considered. If you need additional help, please contact OAH at 800-583-8271.

For more information on how to submit documents electronically, please see the manage my case page.

Can I change the date and time of the hearing?

You can ask to change the date and time of the hearing. You should make this request as soon as possible. You should contact the Appeals Coordinator listed in your Notice of Hearing. If you are unable to reach them, you may contact OAH at 800-583-8271. 

The judge decides whether there is a good reason to change the date of the hearing. Information on what qualifies as good cause is in WAC 388-02-0020.

You must attend the hearing unless OAH tells you that it has been rescheduled to a different date and time. If you do not appear, you may be defaulted (you may lose your right to a hearing).