(a) General procedure.

At the hearing, the case may be presented by a party either personally or by an attorney. Each party will be afforded a reasonable opportunity to present evidence, examine, and cross examine witnesses. The hearing officer shall conduct the hearing in a fair and impartial manner. Each witness shall testify under oath or by affirmation. The hearing officer may examine witnesses. The hearing officer shall not be bound by the technical rules of evidence or by formal rules of procedure. The hearing officer may exclude irrelevant or unduly repetitive testimony or evidence from any hearing. Official notice may be taken of all facts of which judicial notice can be taken and of other facts within the specialized knowledge of the commission. When official notice is taken, every party shall be given notice thereof and shall on timely request be afforded an opportunity prior to the decision to dispute the fact or its materiality. Briefs as to the facts and law may be submitted and the hearing officer may order a brief to be submitted in any proceeding and fix the time when briefs may be filed.

(b) Adjournments.

The hearing may be adjourned at the discretion of the hearing officer for good cause shown upon request of any party or upon consent of all parties. Adjournments on consent of all parties shall be subject to the approval of the hearing officer. However, adjudicatory proceedings shall be conducted in an expeditious manner, with due regard for the rights of the parties concerned.