Which entity prepares and submits a recommended order at a formal hearing?

The administration law judge is responsible for preparing and submitting a recommended order at a formal hearing. In the context of legal proceedings in Florida, the administrative law judge presides over evidentiary hearings and makes determinations based on the evidence presented. After evaluating the facts, the judge formulates a recommended order, which is then submitted for further consideration by the appropriate regulatory entity.

The significance of this role lies in the separation of powers within administrative law, where the judge acts as an unbiased arbiter. This process ensures that the recommendations are based solely on factual findings and legal standards, preserving the integrity of the hearing process.

Other entities, such as the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, the probable cause panel, and the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC), have different functions within the regulatory framework. While they may be involved in other stages of the disciplinary process, it is the administration law judge who directly handles the recommended order following the formal hearing.