When an administrative hearing complaint is filed against a licensee a contested case hearing is held in the division's central offices, located in Ankeny, Iowa. Contested case matters are heard by an administrative law judge from the Department of Inspections and Appeals. Licensees may represent themselves or hire an attorney at their own expense. The licensee or their attorney may call witnesses, make arguments and introduce evidence. This is generally the only time that evidence may be submitted.
Hearings are open to the public and are tape recorded.
Following the hearing, the administrative law judge will issue a proposed decision. The proposed decision will be in writing and will be forwarded to all interested parties by mail. Suspend the license from one to 365 days. Revoke the license. Dismiss all or part of the allegations cited in the administrative hearing complaint.