Rule 01 - Rules Relating To Administrative Procedure

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12. Consolidation The hearing officer, upon may consolidate for hearing or for other purposes, or may contemporaneously consider, two or more proceedings which involve substantially the same parties or issues which are the same or closely related if the hearing officer finds that such consolidation or contemporaneous consideration will be conducive to the proper dispatch of its business and to the ends of justice and will not unduly delay the proceeding. 13. Evidence a. Form and Admissibility. The hearing officer shall not be bound by the rules relating to the admission or rejection of evidence, but may exercise his or her own discretion in such matter with a view to doing substantial justice. b. Ruling. The hearing officer shall rule on the admissibility of all evidence. c. Objections and Exceptions. When objections are made to the admission or exclusion of evidence, the grounds relied upon shall be stated briefly. Formal exceptions to rulings are unnecessary and need not be taken. d. Offer of Proof. An offer of proof for the record shall consist of a statement of the substance of the evidence to which objection has been sustained. e. Prepared Testimony. With the approval of the hearing testimony on direct examination. Before any prepared testimony is read, unless excused by the hearing officer, the witness shall deliver copies to the hearing officer and all parties or counsel. Admissibility shall be subject to the rules governing oral testimony. If the hearing officer deems that substantial saving in time will result, a copy of the prepared testimony may be received in evidence without reading, provided that copies thereof shall have been served upon all parties and the hearing officer ten (10) days before the hearing or such prior service is waived, to permit proper cross-examination of the witness on matters contained in the prepared testimony. 14