Introduction
You filed an appeal because you disagree with the Employment Security Department’s decision regarding your paid family or medical leave benefits. Your appeal has been assigned to OAH for a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This section goes over what to expect during the appeal process and answers some commonly asked questions.
What happens after I file an appeal?
After OAH receives your appeal, OAH staff will contact the parties to schedule a prehearing conference. Once the prehearing conference is set, then the general process is:
How long will the appeal process with OAH last?
The appeal process usually takes several months to complete.
How do I withdraw my appeal?
If you no longer wish to pursue your case, you may withdraw your hearing request by contacting OAH in writing. This means that the Employment Security Department’s decision remains in effect.
Ways you can contact OAH:
- Online through the Participant Portal
- Mail to: Washington State Office of Administrative Hearings, 16201 East Indiana Ave, Su. 3000, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
- Fax to 253-593-2200
Please include your name and docket number.
What is settlement?
A settlement is when the parties reach an agreement which resolves the case. To discuss settlement you may call the Hearings Specialist or Assistant Attorney General assigned to your case.
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 oral translation of OAH documents, call 360-407-2700 or 800-583-8271.
What if I need 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.
How do I update my contact information?
Contact OAH immediately if your address or phone number changes. Important information about your case may be mailed to your address.
Other state agencies do not tell OAH if you update your address or phone number. You must also contact OAH.
Please call OAH at 360-407-2700 or 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 from OAH?
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 your own expense at any point during the appeal process. The state will not pay for your lawyer. Many people represent themselves. Click Legal Research and Resources to see free legal resources.
Document Receipt Options
You may choose to receive OAH documents via the online OAH Participant Portal, through secure email, or by USPS.
By opting into the OAH Participant Portal, you will be able to view all documents from all parties online. You will also be able to file documents electronically. You will not receive notifications of new documents uploaded to the OAH Participant Portal. Please let OAH staff know if you would like to opt in to the online Participant Portal.
You may also receive OAH documents by opting in to secure email, or at your mailing address on file. You will only receive OAH documents and notices, not any documents from other parties.