(1) At the hearing, the ALJ:
- (a) Explains the rights of the parties;
- (b) Marks and admits or rejects exhibits;
- (c) Sustains or overrules objections made by the parties, as provided by law;
- (d) Ensures that a record is made;
- (e) Explains that a decision is mailed after the hearing; and
- (f) Notifies the parties of appeal rights.
(2) The parties may:
- (a) Make opening statements to explain the issues;
- (b) Offer evidence to prove their positions, including oral or written statements of witnesses;
- (c) Question the witnesses presented by the other parties; and
- (d) Give closing arguments about what the evidence shows and what laws apply.
- (3) The record is closed at the end of the hearing if the ALJ does not allow more time to offer evidence.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220, 43.216.020, and 43.216.065. WSR 20-02-031, § 110-03-0320, filed 12/19/19, effective 1/19/20.]