2.5.3.4. Formal Hearings
If the respondent contests a violation, or if the regulators deny a settlement offer or waiver, the dispute will devolve to a formal hearing proceeding. The Chief Hearing Officer shall appoint a Hearing Panel to conduct the disciplinary proceeding and issue a decision.
Within 21 days after a respondent has answered a complaint, the Hearing Officer may order a prehearing conference with the disputing parties to discuss:
• Simplification and clarification of the issues
• Exchange of witness and exhibit lists
• Stipulations conc