You may bring witnesses to testify at the hearing. Also, you may bring documents, pictures, or other papers to show the ALJ why you think that DSHS is wrong. You may bring a relative or friend with you even if your relative or friend won't be testifying. You may also have a friend, relative, or any person you wish to represent you at the hearing. Your representative does not have to be a lawyer.
Most people represent themselves at their hearings.
The hearings are usually held at the DSHS office. The hearing is not as formal as a courtroom. All the people present sit around a table. The ALJ will use a tape recorder to record what is said. At the beginning of the hearing the ALJ will explain that she or he is not an employee of DSHS, has never seen your file, and knows nothing about you or your case.