How do most administrative agency decisions get reviewed?

Most administrative agency decisions are reviewed de novo on the record, meaning that the reviewing body examines the agency's decision based on the evidence and arguments presented during the original proceedings, as if it were considering the case for the first time. This approach allows for a thorough evaluation of the administrative record without being bound by the agency's conclusions or factual determinations.

The de novo standard is significant because it enables the reviewing entity, often a court, to re-evaluate both legal and factual aspects of the decision, allowing for a more comprehensive oversight of the administrative process. This method is distinct from other forms of review that might impose more restrictive standards on what can be contested or incorporated into the review.

The other choices do not accurately represent how most administrative agency decisions are treated in judicial or administrative review settings. Strict adherence to the initial findings would limit the review process to the agency’s original conclusions, hindering the potential for correction of errors. A mediation process is not typically utilized for reviewing agency decisions, as it focuses on facilitating a voluntary agreement rather than a formal review of previous determinations. Lastly, summary judgment is a legal mechanism commonly applied in civil litigation to expedite or dismiss cases without a trial based on the lack of genuine issues of material fact; it does not