Sec. 10.22.16.09. Prehearing

A. The appellant and the Department's representative are encouraged to engage in informal discussions before the hearing for the purpose of sharing documentary evidence, clarifying facts, resolving issues, and making recommendations to the Secretary's designee regarding areas of agreement and disagreement and the conduct of the hearing. The appellant shall immediately notify the Secretary's designee if and when there has been a resolution of the appellant's concern which results in the appellant withdrawing the request for a hearing.

B. Written communications and substantive verbal communications between a party and the Secretary's designee shall be shared with all other parties before the hearing or, if not possible, at the hearing.

C. All parties shall make reasonable efforts to comply with the request of other parties to:

(1) Preview relevant records and other written material and to permit discussions with relevant persons before the hearing;

(2) Introduce into evidence at the hearing relevant records and other written material, and secure the appearance and cooperation of relevant witnesses, including the applicant or recipient.