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Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers

Conduct hearings to recommend or make decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters. Determine liability, sanctions, or penalties, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims or settlements.

What you’d do

  • Monitor and direct the activities of trials and hearings to ensure that they are conducted fairly and that courts administer justice while safeguarding the legal rights of all involved parties.
  • Prepare written opinions and decisions.
  • Conduct hearings to review and decide claims regarding issues, such as social program eligibility, environmental protection, or enforcement of health and safety regulations.
  • Rule on exceptions, motions, and admissibility of evidence.
  • Research and analyze laws, regulations, policies, and precedent decisions to prepare for hearings and to determine conclusions.
  • Determine existence and amount of liability according to current laws, administrative and judicial precedents, and available evidence.
  • Issue subpoenas and administer oaths in preparation for formal hearings.
  • Explain to claimants how they can appeal rulings that go against them.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Writing
  • Speaking

How to get there

Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

Also called

  • Administrative Hearings Officer
  • Administrative Judge
  • Administrative Law Judge
  • Hearings Officer
  • Adjudications Specialist
  • Adjudicator

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