After the Hearing

In most cases, the Administrative Law Judge has 45 days from the end of the hearing or from the date of post-hearing submissions (such as proposed decisions) to issue the ALJ's Decision. The ALJ Decision is sent to the parties.

The Administrative Law Judge's Decision is made in writing and contains findings of fact and conclusions of law. Depending on the type of case, the ALJ Decision may be the Final Decision; otherwise, the State agency involved will make the Final Agency Decision.

If the ALJ Decision is not the Final Decision, a copy of the ALJ Decision and the Official Record are sent to the final decision maker. Before the agency issues a Final Decision, both parties will be given an opportunity to file exceptions and written arguments with the final decision maker.