Ask X3What does 49 CFR 386.55 (Prehearing conferences) require?
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Based on 49 CFR 386.55, here is what a prehearing conference involves for your motor carrier business:
* Convening: Before a hearing begins, the administrative law judge may—on their own or at a party's request—require you or your counsel to participate in a prehearing conference.
* Topics Discussed: The conference is used to handle matters that simplify or speed up the case, including:
* Simplifying and clarifying the issues.
* Determining if pleadings need to be amended.
* Agreeing (stipulating) on facts and document authenticity.
* Issuing or responding to subpoenas.
* Taking and using depositions.
* Handling discovery orders, inspecting premises, and producing documents or physical objects.
* Disclosing witness names and addresses, and exchanging documents you plan to offer as evidence.
* Any other matters that help expedite the proceedings.
* The Judge's Order: Following the conference, the administrative law judge will issue a written order that outlines what was discussed, any agreements reached, and rulings made. This order is then served to the parties and filed into the official record of the proceedings.