Preparing for and litigating a due process hearing presents substantial challenges for every school attorney. Jose Martín takes you step-by-step through each phase of the hearing process, from all essential prehearing procedures and brief-writing tips to the opening statement, presentation of evidence, direct and cross-examination of witnesses, and closing arguments. And, of course, the hearing process continues to offer additional opportunities to settle part or all of the case, not only at the pre-hearing stage but during the hearing when one or both presentations don't go as planned. With this in mind, veteran hearing officer Deusdedi Merced will offer insights on how parties can best use the hearing process to attempt to resolve the complaint. Deusdedi also discusses what hearing officers expect from the attorneys who appear before them.