Hearing examiner.

§ 18.14 Hearing examiner. (a) After an answer is filed, if the Director General decides to continue the administrative disciplinary proceedings, he/she shall appoint a hearing examiner to conduct those proceedings under this part. (b) Authorities. Among other powers, the hearing examiner shall have authority, in connection with any proceeding assigned or referred to him/her, to do the following: (1) Take evidence under appropriate formalities; (2) Make rulings upon motions and requests; (3) Determine the time and place of hearing and regulate its course and conduct; (4) Adopt rules of procedure and modify the same from time to time as occasion requires for the orderly disposition of proceedings; (5) Rule upon offers of proof, receive relevant evidence, and examine witnesses; (6) Take or authorize the taking of depositions; (7) Receive and consider oral or written argument on facts or law; (8) Hold or provide for the holding of conferences for the settlement or simplification of the issues by consent of the parties; (9) Perform such acts and take such measures as are necessary or appropriate to the efficient conduct of any proceeding; and (10) Make initial decisions.