The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) handles a wide range of legal disputes between individuals or businesses and Idaho state agencies. These are known as contested cases, and they typically arise when someone disagrees with an agency decision and requests a formal hearing.
This page provides an overview of the most common types of cases we hear. While the specifics may vary, the goal is always the same: to ensure a fair, impartial, and lawful resolution.
Professional Licensing
Examples: Nurses, contractors, counselors, cosmetologists, real estate agents, and other licensed professionals
- OAH hears cases involving licensing applications, denials, suspensions, or disciplinary actions.
- These cases often come from boards or commissions that regulate professions in Idaho.
Public Benefits and Eligibility
Examples: Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI), or child care assistance
- These cases typically involve appeals when benefits are denied, reduced, or terminated.
- Individuals can present evidence to show eligibility or challenge a state agency’s decision.
Unemployment and Employment-Related Matters
Examples: Disputed unemployment claims, disqualification due to misconduct, or overpayment disputes
- These cases usually involve former employees, employers, and the Idaho Department of Labor.
- OAH provides a neutral setting to review both sides of the issue.
Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement
Examples: Permitting violations, environmental regulations, or failure to comply with agency rules
- OAH hears cases where individuals or businesses are alleged to have violated state regulations enforced by agencies like the Department of Environmental Quality or Department of Water Resources.
- Penalties, fines, or corrective actions may be reviewed during the hearing.
Medicaid Provider Cases
Examples: Provider enrollment denials, audits, payment suspensions, or fraud allegations
- These cases involve healthcare providers challenging decisions made by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
- They often include detailed record review and technical regulations.
Child Support Enforcement Appeals
Examples: Establishment of support, modifications, or enforcement actions
- OAH may review administrative decisions related to child support services, including paternity establishment and income withholding orders.
Other Contested Matters
OAH also hears a variety of other case types depending on the agency and subject matter, including:
- Tax-related disputes
- Agricultural regulations
- Driver’s license suspensions (in some agency contexts)
- Government contract or procurement challenges
If you are unsure whether your case falls under OAH’s jurisdiction, please contact us. We’re happy to help clarify your next steps.
Learn More
Each type of case follows a process governed by Idaho law and administrative rules. To learn more about how hearings work, visit:
Still Have Questions?
Please don’t hesitate to Contact Us.