Clarifying Information:

1. The pre-hearing conference (PHC) may be required by an ALJ or requested by any party. It is an essential step in the administrative hearing process. See WAC 388-02-0200 – What Happens During a Pre-Hearing Conference.

2. Attendance at the pre-hearing conference is mandatory for the parties. If clients do not attend the pre-hearing conference, the ALJ may dismiss the hearing request or enter a default order against the client.

3. An ALJ may conduct the pre-hearing conference in person, by telephone conference call, or in any other manner acceptable to the parties.

Note: Mandatory Pre-Hearing Conferences do not apply to Basic Food cases. See 7 CFR 273.15(d).