Adult Certification Review Officer / Hearing Officer

VBHC1 – CERTIFICATION REVIEW OFFICER (CRO)/HEARING OFFICER

Department: VBHC1 – Adult PHF (72 Beds) 

Location: Colton, CA 

Pay: Contracted

Position Summary

The Certification Review Officer (CRO), also referred to as a Hearing Officer, is responsible for conducting Certification Review Hearings for individuals detained under the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act. This position serves as an independent, neutral decision-maker within a quasi-judicial framework and ensures that involuntary detention beyond 72 hours complies with statutory requirements and due process protections.

The CRO applies a reasonable person standard to determine whether probable cause exists for continued detention. The role requires the ability to evaluate clinical documentation, assess credibility of testimony, and interpret statutory criteria under time-sensitive conditions. The CRO must maintain strict independence from facility operations while ensuring hearings are conducted efficiently, consistently, and in alignment with San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) expectations and Patients’ Rights oversight practices.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties

1. Conduct Certification Review Hearings pursuant to WIC §§5250 and 5270 within required timelines.

2. Determine whether probable cause exists to support continued involuntary detention.

3. Ensure all due process protections are upheld, including timely notice, access to Patients’ Rights Advocate, and opportunity for representation.

4. Maintain neutrality and independence in all proceedings.

5. Review certification documentation in advance to identify deficiencies or compliance concerns.

6. Evaluate testimony, clinical evidence, and documentation for consistency and legal sufficiency.

7. Issue written determinations that are clear, evidence-based, and legally defensible.

8. Complete and submit all required documentation in accordance with regulatory standards.

9. Ensure compliance with Title 9 CCR, DHCS Patients’ Rights requirements, and San Bernardino County DBH policies.

10. Coordinate with Patients’ Rights Advocates and facility staff for scheduling and hearing logistics.

11. Participate in audits or regulatory reviews as required.

12. Maintain accurate records for legal and regulatory purposes.

13. Identify patterns of documentation deficiencies and communicate concerns to designated administrative contacts.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: A Juris Doctor (JD), a Master’s degree, or higher in behavioral health, psychology, social work, public administration, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent professional experience in administrative hearings, behavioral health systems, or quasi-judicial proceedings may be considered in lieu of formal education, consistent with county eligibility requirements.

Experience: Minimum two (2) years of experience conducting or participating in LPS Certification Review Hearings or similar quasi-judicial proceedings. We strongly prefer candidates with experience working within or alongside the San Bernardino County Superior Court system, Patients’ Rights programs, or county behavioral health hearing processes.

Specialized Skills:

· Knowledge of WIC §§5150, 5250, and 5270

· Understanding of patients’ rights and due process protections

· Ability to interpret clinical and legal documentation

· Strong communication and decision-making skills

· Ability to maintain objectivity and neutrality

Physical Requirements: Prolonged sitting, computer use, and participation in virtual or in-person hearings.

Licenses/Certifications: Active California professional license (if applicable) preferred. All licenses must be active, unrestricted, and in good standing. Must meet eligibility requirements for designation as a hearing officer in San Bernardino County.

Potential Job Hazards: Exposure to emotionally distressed or agitated individuals.

Safety Precautions Required: Adherence to facility safety and de-escalation protocols.