HEARING

a proceeding where evidence is taken to determine an issue of fact and to reach a decision on the basis of that evidence; describes whatever takes place before magistrates sitting without jury. Thus a hearing, such as an administrative hearing, may take place outside the judicial process, before officials who have been granted judicial authority expressly for the purpose of conducting such hearings. FINAL HEARING: is sometimes used to describe that stage of proceedings relating to the determination of a suit upon its merits, as distinguished from those of preliminary questions.

see also fair hearing.
Source: Barron's Dictionary of Legal Terms, Steven H. Gifis, 5th Edition; © 2016