What basis do appellate courts use when reviewing agency decisions?

Appellate courts primarily rely on the records made during the administrative hearings when reviewing agency decisions. This is because the courts are focused on the factual and legal context of the case as it was presented before the agency. The administrative record includes all pertinent documents and evidence considered by the agency, which provides a comprehensive view of the decision-making process.

The courts generally do not re-evaluate the facts anew or substitute their judgment for that of the agency. Instead, they assess whether the agency's conclusions were supported by substantial evidence in the record, determining if there was a reasonable basis for the agency's decision based on the evidence and testimony presented during the administrative proceeding.

This reliance on the administrative record ensures that the review process remains grounded in the factual findings and legal standards applied by the agency, rather than external opinions, the motives of the agency officials, or public sentiment, which are not typically part of the formal review process.