Sec. 17.04.07.07. Appearance of Parties at Settlement Conference; Representation

A. A party or a designated representative shall be present for all scheduled settlement conferences.

B. An individual may be represented by himself or herself or by a designated representative.

C. If a designated representative participates in a settlement conference instead of a party, the designated representative shall have authority to negotiate or settle the matter appealed.

D. A party's designated representative shall enter the representative's appearance with the Office. The designation of the representative shall be in writing.

E. A copy of all notices and correspondence shall be sent to a party and a party's designated representative.

F. When the appellant's designated representative is another State employee, the appointing authority of the designated representative shall assure that the designated representative is given reasonable time during work hours to investigate appeals and participate in settlement conferences and hearings relating to an appeal. An employee may not leave the employee's post of duty to represent another employee at a grievance appeal or a disciplinary appeal conference or hearing without permission from the employee's supervisor.

G. The appointing authority shall assure that the appellant is given reasonable time during work hours to investigate appeals and participate in settlement conferences and hearings relating to an appeal.