California Code, Business and Professions Code - BPC § 3529

The board may hear any matters filed pursuant to subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 3527, or may assign the matter to a hearing officer. The Medical Board of California may hear any matters filed pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 3527, or may assign the matter to a hearing officer. If a matter is heard by the board or the Medical Board of California, the hearing officer who presided at the hearing shall be present during the board's or the Medical Board of California's consideration of the case, and, if requested, assist and advise the board or the Medical Board of California.