ALJs are experienced in limiting hearings to relevant matters, and in conducting the hearing efficiently and cost effectively. The ALJ will usually have expertise in the subject matter of the hearing, as well as experience in preparing concise findings from an administrative record. However, the ALJ cannot provide legal advice to the parties. Rules for hearings may be set out in statute, municipal ordinance or city charter. But the parties may agree to use the procedural rules of OAH that apply to state agency hearings if they wish to do so.
Hearings are usually informal and most last a half-day or less.
The hearings are tape-recorded, and a copy of the tape is available if requested. A transcript can also be prepared from the tape for a charge. OAH also maintains a list of qualified court reporters who are available upon request. Typically the ALJ conducts the hearing, hears testimony and receives written exhibits and then prepares written findings of fact, conclusions and a recommendation. In license cases, recommendations are not specific, but merely indicate whether or not disciplinary action is appropriate.