Prehearing conferences.

§ 26.39 Prehearing conferences. (a) The ALJ may schedule prehearing conferences as appropriate. (b) Upon the motion of any party or sua sponte , the ALJ may schedule a prehearing conference at a reasonable time in advance of the hearing. (c) The ALJ may consider the following at a prehearing conference: (1) Simplification of the issues; (2) Stipulations of fact and of the authenticity, accuracy, and admissibility of documents; (3) Submission of the case on briefs in lieu of an oral hearing; (4) Limitation of the number of witnesses; (5) The exchange of witness lists and of proposed exhibits; (6) Discovery; (7) The time and place for the hearing; and (8) Such other matters as may tend to expedite the fair and just disposition of the proceedings.