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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