Section 4-21 - Order of Procedure (a) As nearly as practicable, the following order of procedure shall be followed: - (i) The hearing officer shall announce the hearing is open and call by docket number and title of the case to be heard. The hearing officer shall ask if parties are ready to proceed and will allow parties an opportunity to dispose of any preliminary matters.
- (ii) The hearing officer shall administer the oath to all witnesses who will present testimony.
- (iii) The hearing officer may, in his or her discretion, allow evidence to be heard in an order other than that prescribed here.
- (iv) Opening statements may be made.
- (v) The party with the burden of proof shall offer evidence first, followed by the other party. The party which proceeded first may then offer rebuttal evidence. Parties may cross-examine.
- (vi) No testimony shall be received by the hearing officer unless given under oath/affirmation administered by the hearing officer.
- (vii) Closing statements may be made.
- (viii) The hearing officer may limit the time for opening and closing statements.
- (ix) After all parties have had an opportunity to be heard, the hearing officer shall excuse all witnesses and close the evidence.
- (x) Evidence may be reopened only upon a motion by a party to the proceeding on a showing of good cause.
(b) Upon their own motion, all parties or other interested persons may submit legal briefs after the close of the hearing. The hearing officer shall allow a reasonable time, not less than ten (10) working days from the date of hearing, for preparation of the briefs. The time may be extended upon agreement between the parties with the approval of the hearing officer.
048-4 Wyo. Code R. § 4-21