A hearing official is an individual responsible for conducting hearings regarding the existence or amount of a claimed debt. This role includes making decisions based on the evidence presented during the hearing. Notably, when the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is the creditor agency, the hearing official must operate independently and not be under OPM's supervision or control.
The term "hearing official" is primarily used in administrative law, particularly in cases involving debt collection and disputes. Hearing officials may be involved in civil proceedings where individuals contest debts claimed by government agencies or other entities. Users can often manage related legal processes using templates provided by services like US Legal Forms, which offer forms for hearings and debt disputes.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: An individual disputes a debt claimed by a federal agency. A hearing official conducts a hearing to review the evidence and makes a ruling on the debt's validity.
Example 2: A government employee challenges a wage garnishment due to an alleged debt. The hearing official evaluates the case and determines whether the garnishment is justified. (hypothetical example)
The primary legal reference for hearing officials is found in 5 CFR 179.203, which outlines their responsibilities and independence in debt hearings. Other related statutes may apply depending on the specific context of the debt being contested.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Law Judge | An official who presides over hearings in administrative law cases. | May have broader authority than a hearing official, including making rulings on legal issues. |
| Arbitrator | A neutral third party who resolves disputes outside of court. | Typically involved in private disputes, whereas hearing officials deal with public agency claims. |
If you find yourself involved in a hearing regarding a debt, consider the following steps:
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Fees | Varies based on the agency and nature of the hearing. |
| Jurisdiction | Federal and state agencies, depending on the debt type. |
| Possible Outcomes | Debt upheld, reduced, or dismissed. |
A hearing official conducts hearings on disputed debts and makes decisions based on the evidence presented.