Are private parties permitted to have representation at hearings?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
Who may serve as a private party representative?:
Either
Is the agency permitted to have representation at hearings?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
Who may serve as an agency representative?:
Attorney
Regulations/rules of practice for hearings (please include CFR citations):
28 CFR 48.8 - 48.14
Is discovery permitted by either party at the hearing-level stage?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
Briefly describe the scope and type(s) of discovery available (e.g., depositions, interrogatories, etc.):
Discovery is permitted by any party, "as provided in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure; except that the ALJ may place such limits as s/he deems reasonable on the time and manner of taking discovery in order to avoid unnecessary delays in the proceedings." 28 CFR 48.10(a)(3).
Are ex parte contacts prohibited?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
Are parties provided notice of hearing?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
What types of hearings are permitted at the hearing-level stage?:
In-Person
In-Person:
100%
How is the type of hearing selected:
Required by Rule
How many hearing officers preside at each hearing?:
One
Is witness testimony permitted at hearings?:
Yes
Can parties cross-examine witnesses?:
Yes
Can third-parties submit amicus briefs and/or evidence?:
Yes
Are hearings recorded and/or transcribed?:
Yes
Who typically drafts the decision at the hearing-level stage?:
Adjudication Officer
Do agency regulations or guidance provide time limits for issuance of final decisions?:
No
Is judicial review available after issuance of a final decision?:
No
Does the agency permit web-based electronic filing of hearing-related briefs or other documents?:
No
Are final decisions published and/or posted on the agency website?:
No
Do agency regulations/rules of practice specify the contents of the administrative record at the hearing-level stage?:
Yes (All Types of Cases)
If "Yes," please provide citation(s):
28 CFR 48.13(b)
Do agency regulations/rules of practice provide for closure of the record at the hearing-level stage (subject to applicable exce:
No
Comments/Notes on Hearing-Level Process & Procedures (Optional):
While amicus briefs are not directly addressed, third parties who feel they have an interest that may be affected by the Attorney General's decisions may apply to intervene per the provisions in 28 CFR 48.11.
Is ADR available at one or more points during the hearing process?:
No
Verified by Agency:
Not verified