Informal hearing description

• A. Informal hearing is similar to a trial; DOAH handles the hearing
• B. Informal hearing is conducted by FREC
• C. Informal hearing requires a jury
• D. Informal hearing is not part of the process

Answer: (A)

Informal hearings in Florida administrative practice are conducted by the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH). They resemble a trial in structure and procedure, with an Administrative Law Judge overseeing witnesses, testimony, and exhibits to create a formal record, but the process is generally less formal than a courtroom. The hearing is handled by DOAH, not the licensing board itself, and the judge issues a recommended order to the agency, which then makes the final decision. There is typically no jury involved. This description fits best because it captures both the role of DOAH and the trial-like nature of the proceeding. It’s not conducted by the Florida Real Estate Commission in this context, and the hearing is indeed part of the process.