A hearing officer is a judicial officer authorized to hear and decide certain family law or support matters in Arizona. In Maricopa County hearing officers handle many child support cases including establishment, modification, and enforcement proceedings.

A hearing officer's ruling is subject to review by a Superior Court judge if either party objects within the required time. The objection process and the standard of review depend on the type of matter and the specific rules governing hearing officer proceedings.

Hearings before a hearing officer are formal proceedings. Both parties have the right to present evidence and argument. Treat a hearing officer proceeding with the same level of preparation as a hearing before a judge.