What does OAH do?
The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) is an administrative court. You have a right to appeal when you disagree with an action taken by certain state agencies. OAH hears and decides the disagreement.
The judge who hears your case is neutral and not employed by the state agency involved in the disagreement. After your proceeding, the judge will make a decision based on the facts gathered at the proceeding.
You can appeal the decision of the OAH judge. You must follow specific steps at the end of the decision you receive.
Hearing Types?
There are two types of hearings for the Work Zone Speed Camera appeals. It could be a Brief Adjudicative Proceeding (BAP) or a Formal Adjudicative Proceeding (Formal Hearing). Based on which type of hearing you have, you will need to do different things to participate.
How do I tell if I have a Brief Adjudicative Proceeding or a Formal Adjudicative Proceeding?
The notice of hearing tells you what type of hearing you have. In the top right corner, it will say:
- “Notice of Administrative Review of Written Appeal” for a Brief Adjudicative Proceeding
- It will say “Notice of Hearing” for a formal hearing.
Click for information on Brief Adjudicative Proceedings
Click for information on formal hearings.
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. Many people represent themselves.
OAH does not provide an attorney. OAH cannot give legal advice.
Here are some low cost or free representation resources:
- Find Legal Help http://www.wsba.org/Resources-and-Services/Find-Legal-Help
- For a more detailed list, click Legal Research and Resources
Can I change the proceeding date?
You may request a new date or time for your proceeding using the Continuance/Postponement Request form. The judge will decide whether or not to grant that request.
If you have a good reason, you may be able to change the proceeding date. You must make your request in writing. The request must be sent to all parties involved in the proceeding. This will be listed in your Notice of Hearing.
It must include:
- The reason you want to change the date
- Name
- Docket number
Send the written request to:
or fax it to 253-593-2200
What if I need an interpreter?
If you want an interpreter, click Request Interpreter or call the Office of Administrative Hearings (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 oral translation of OAH documents, call OAH at 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 effects the ability to participate and describe how we can help by accommodating the need so you can access our facilities and services.
Click Accommodation Request to request an accommodation or call OAH at 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 800-583-8271.
What if I want to withdraw my appeal?
You may request to withdraw your appeal. A withdrawal ends your case.
To end your case, send a written statement to OAH:
or fax it to 253-593-2200
What if I do not participate?
If you miss any of your scheduled events, the judge may dismiss your case. This is called a default. You will receive an Order of Dismissal-Default. This ends your case. If you still want your hearing, you must follow the instructions on the Order of Dismissal-Default. You have a limited time to do this.
A time will be scheduled for you to explain to the judge why you missed your event. The judge will decide whether or not to reopen your case.
How do I request another hearing if I don’t participate?
If you still want your hearing, you must follow the instructions on the Order of Dismissal-Default. You have a limited time to do this.