Section 17.13.20. Hearing procedures.

       13.20(1) The presiding officer presides at the hearing, and may rule on motions, require briefs, issue a proposed decision, and issue such orders and rulings as will ensure the orderly conduct of the proceedings.

       13.20(2) All objections shall be timely made and stated on the record.

       13.20(3) Parties have the right to participate or to be represented in all hearings or prehearing conferences related to their case. Partnerships, corporations, or associations may be represented by any member, officer, director, or duly authorized agent. Any party may be represented by an attorney or another person authorized by law.

       13.20(4) Subject to terms and conditions prescribed by the presiding officer, parties have the right to introduce evidence on issues of material fact, cross-examine witnesses present at the hearing as necessary for a full and true disclosure of the facts, present evidence in rebuttal, and submit briefs and engage in oral argument.

       13.20(5) The presiding officer shall maintain the decorum of the hearing and may refuse to admit or may expel anyone whose conduct is disorderly.

       13.20(6) Witnesses may be sequestered during the hearing.

       13.20(7) The presiding officer shall conduct the hearing in the following manner:

        a.           The presiding officer shall give an opening statement briefly describing the nature of the proceedings;

        b.           The parties shall be given an opportunity to present opening statements;

        c.           Parties shall present their cases in the sequence determined by the presiding officer;

        d.           Each witness shall be sworn or affirmed by the presiding officer or the court reporter, and be subject to examination and cross-examination. The presiding officer may limit questioning in a manner consistent with law;

        e.           When all parties and witnesses have been heard, parties may be given the opportunity to present final arguments.

[ARC 8489B, IAB 1/27/10, effective 1/7/10]