Writes a formal legal opinion for granted appeals which includes a background of the case, a statement as to the legal issues presented, an analysis of the evidence, together with the statute and case law which supports the results reached; prepares findings of fact and conclusions of law on all contested issues; Review initial orders on appeal and issue decisions of the commissioner according to the provisions of RCW 50.32;

Review the appeal record including evidence presented by the parties, all testimony and exhibits;

Evaluate the statement of facts and application of the law contained in the initial order;

Research relevant law and determine the correctness of the initial order;

Issue a decision of the commissioner, which includes a statement of the legal issues presented, an analysis of the evidence, findings of fact, and conclusions of law;

Provide consultative and technical services to programs in matters relating to administrative hearings;

Knowledge of: administrative, procedural, substantive, and common law; rules of evidence; specific bodies of law applicable to the hearings, including Federal and State statutes, court decisions, and regulations; departmental policies relevant to the contested case and rule-making hearing processes; public disclosure law; and organization of the department.

Ability to: review the hearing record for irregularity in the proceedings; conduct legal research and provide legal advice to peers, superiors, and disclosure coordinators; review the hearing record for errors in fact finding, instructions to parties, rulings on the admissibility of evidence, the application or interpretation of the law, and any other elements which could result in improper resolution of issues; draft findings of fact, conclusions of law, and orders which are clear and concise; instruct others in disclosure law and on administrative law and hearing process;

Active or judicial membership in the Washington State Bar Association.

AND

Four years of experience as a hearings examiner in a governmental agency; or four years as a member of an administrative tribunal empowered to issue findings of fact and conclusions of law; or four years of trial practice in private or public employment.

One year of any of the above experience must be in the field of law related to cases heard by the employing agency.

Equivalent education/experience.

New class: 2-12-88.
Revised definition and minimum qualifications: 12-15-89.
Revised minimum qualifications: 2-11-94.
New class code: (formerly 47290) effective July 1, 2007.
Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.
Revised definition, typical work, knowledge and abilities, and desirable qualifications; base range salary increase from 69 to 75; adopted June 23, 2025; effective July 1, 2025.