1. A. Ordinarily, the Ombudsman will handle matters in the order in which a request for dispute resolution is received and the file is opened.
2. B. The Ombudsman has discretion to handle a matter out of order if there is a compelling reason to do so.

3. C. Time for Mediation.

   1. (1) The Ombudsman has up to 90 days from the date a file is opened with the Office in which to attempt to resolve a dispute and bring a matter to closure.

   2. (2) The 90-day deadline may be extended if:

      1. (a) An extension is needed and desirable in light of the progress that has already been made to resolve the dispute;
      2. (b) An extension is likely to result in the ultimate resolution of the dispute; and
      3. (c) The applicant, the custodian, and the Ombudsman agree to the extension and the extension is confirmed in writing.

Authority: General Provisions Article, §§4-1B-01—4-1B-04, Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: June 17, 2019 (46:12 Md. R. 547)

Regulation .01 amended effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 800)

Regulation .02 amended effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 800)

Regulations .03—.06 repealed and new Regulations .03—.11 adopted effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 800)