When an agency decides your case, what kind of process do you get?

Sometimes it’s a full trial-type hearing with witnesses, cross-examination, an independent decisionmaker, and a written opinion. Other times it’s a paper review and a short explanation.

In this episode, we map the adjudication spectrum under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) — from “straight to your room” to a full family meeting.

What We Cover

• The difference between formal and informal adjudication
• The “magic words” that trigger full procedural protections: “on the record after opportunity for agency hearing”
• Why most agency decisions — roughly 90% or more — are informal
• What formal adjudication actually includes:
  • Notice
  • Right to counsel
  • Pre ...