PURPOSE: This rule provides for the appearance of parties in matters before the commissioner.

1. (1) Any party that files a request for hearing 15 CSR 30-55

pursuant to 15 CSR 30-55.020(1) is required to appear in person at the hearing scheduled under 15 CSR 30-55.020(4). Failure to appear at the time and location designated in the hearing order provides grounds for the commissioner to sanction the non-appearing party. The commissioner may utilize discretion in imposing such sanction, including, but not limited to, refusing to allow the party to support or oppose claims or defenses, striking pleadings, not allowing the introduction of evidence or the examination of witnesses, and finding the party in default.

1. (2) It is not sufficient for an individual to appear through counsel.
2. (3) Any entity that is a party must be represented by a Missouri-licensed attorney.
3. (4) The Enforcement Section must be represented by a Missouri-licensed attorney who is a designee of the commissioner.
4. (5) The commissioner may allow a party to appear via other means or to appear through an attorney. Any motion for such must be filed fifteen (15) days prior to the date of the hearing scheduled under 15 CSR 30- 55.020(4).

AUTHORITY: section 409.6-605, RSMo 2016.* Original rule filed April 23, 2021, effective Oct. 30, 2021.

*Original authority: 409.6-605, RSMo 2003.