How does the hearing work?

At the start of the hearing, the parties and Investigator will usually introduce themselves. During the hearing, only the Advisors and the Decision-maker may ask questions of the parties, witnesses, and Investigator. The Decision-maker leads the hearing and may ask follow-up questions as needed. Once the hearing ends, the Decision-maker will take time to review all the relevant evidence, assess credibility, and determine whether it is more likely than not that a policy violation occurred (this is called the “preponderance of the evidence” standard). The parties will receive the outcome of the hearing, and the Decision-maker’s rationale, in writing at the same time.