General Hearing Information
Do I appeal?
You received an agency notice that you disagree with. In most cases, you can appeal.
If you do not appeal it you will not be able to do anything about what the agency decided. For example, if you received a fine, you will have to pay the fine.
If you appeal a hearing will be scheduled with the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).
You may want to consult with legal counsel for help in deciding whether to appeal.
How do I appeal?
If you disagree with an agency notice, read it carefully. It has instructions on how to appeal. It is your responsibility to follow those instructions. If you do not, you may lose your right to appeal.
What is a hearing?
A hearing is when you get to present your case to the judge. The hearing will be either by phone, video, or in-person. The notice of hearing will tell you how to participate.
A person from the agency will attend the hearing. The agency will have a lawyer representing it. That person is called an Assistant Attorney General (AAG). If you choose to do so, you may hire a lawyer to represent you.
It is your responsibility to attend the hearing.
During the hearing you will tell your side of the case. You may have witnesses talk. The judge will discuss any documents you or the agency provide.
You must participate in the hearing. Otherwise, your case may be cancelled (dismissed).
How long will this take?
The appeal process may take several weeks to several months. It will begin with a prehearing conference on the phone. You will receive a Notice of Prehearing Conference (PHC) in the mail. The notice will tell you the time and date of the prehearing conference.
Sample Notice of Prehearing Conference
During the phone conference you will learn about other events that may take place before the hearing. You and the judge will schedule the hearing.
What if I need an interpreter?
If you want an interpreter for yourself or your witness, click Request Interpreter or call OAH as soon as possible. The state will pay for the interpreter. Family members and friends cannot be your interpreter at the hearing.
For a free translation of OAH documents, call 360-407-2700 or 800-583-8271.
What if I have a disability and require an accommodation?
If you or any of your witnesses have a disability and require an accommodation to participate, contact OAH as soon as possible. You will need to tell OAH about how the disability affects the ability to participate and describe how we can help by accommodating the need so you can access our facilities and services.
Click Request Accommodation to request an accommodation or call OAH at 360-407-2700 or 800-583-8271.
What if I move?
Tell OAH IMMEDIATELY if your address or phone number changes. Important information about your case is mailed to your address.
Other state agencies do not tell OAH if you update your address or phone number. You must also call OAH.
Please call OAH at (800) 583-8271 to update your address or phone number. If you have a docket number, please have it ready.
What if I lost or never received my paperwork?
If you have not received your paperwork, please call OAH at (360) 407-2700 or (800) 583-8271.
Do I need a lawyer?
You have the right to a lawyer at any point in the appeal process. The state will not pay for your lawyer. In most hearings, you may have a friend or family member represent you. Many people represent themselves. Click Regulatory Caseload Resources to see free legal resources.