What happens when you meet with a hearing officier? I have so many questions.

Is the other parent there?
Do I need to bring witnesses?
Can the hearing officier issue custody to one parent or do we still have to appear in front of a judge?
The kids are being detained outside of the country by the other parent. Can the hearing officier force her to return the kids back to the US?
Does the hearing officier need to observe interaction between each parent and the children?
The children are little (6 and 7), and the other parent has been telling them that we abused them. Does the hearing officier deal with this?

Any help or information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

first of all did you read my answer to your other post?

if not it is very important that you do so page down on the custody board and read it.

a hearing officer can hold the hearing and make a decision without the presence of the other parent if you have proof of service.

if you do not have proof of service your attorney must have filed for an
ex-parte hearing;l

i posted a ton of information in answer to your other post.

rini