W. Va. Code R. § 114-13-4 - Conferences; Informal Disposition of Cases

4.1. Conferences. -- At any time prior to the hearing or thereafter, the commissioner or a person conducting the hearing by his or her authority, may hold conferences:

a. To dispose of procedural requests or similar matters;

b. To simplify or settle issues by consent of the parties; or

c. To provide for the informal disposition of cases by stipulation, agreed settlement or consent order.

The commissioner may cause such conferences to be held on his or her motion or by request of a party.

4.2. The commissioner, upon agreement of the parties, may require mediation or other alternative dispute resolution technique to assist the parties in identifying, clarifying and resolving issues regarding a category (B) hearing. Mediation may be requested at any time prior to the hearing. All of the information that is provided by parties during mediation is and shall remain confidential. Mediators may not be called as witnesses to provide testimony in unresolved issues that proceed to a hearing, and any hearing examiner involved in a mediation process may not hear the case or be consulted regarding the merits of the case.

Notes

W. Va. Code R. § 114-13-4