Rule 18-23-3.4 - The Hearing Officer's Conduct of a HearingThe Hearing Officer shall conduct a hearing by doing the following:
1. The Hearing Officer shall initiate a hearing and open the hearing record;2. The Hearing Officer shall introduce themselves and describe the objective and structure of the hearing, including the order of the hearing and the manner of introducing evidence at the hearing;3. The Hearing Officer shall introduce each party and all present individuals;4. The Hearing Officer shall direct the parties in accordance with the structure of the hearing;5. The Hearing Officer shall question the parties and any witnesses at will and shall ensure that all relevant issues have been considered;6. The Hearing Officer shall adjourn the hearing once all argument and evidence have been presented; and,7. If necessary, the Hearing Officer shall timely render a decision after the conclusion of the hearing.Each party, witness, attorney, representative, or any other person shall show proper dignity, courtesy, and respect for the Hearing Officer and other participants. The Hearing Officer shall be empowered to maintain proper decorum and conduct. Remedial actions may include removing an offending participant or continuing the hearing to a later date.
Miss. Code Ann. 43-1-2(4)(b); 2 C.F.R. § 200.342; 7 C.F.R. § 273.15(m); 7 C.F.R. 273.15(n); 7 C.F.R. 273.15(o); 7 C.F.R. 273.15(p); 7 C.F.R. § 273.15(q); 7 C.F.R. § 273.16(e)(2); 7 C.F.R. § 273.16(e)(4).