OAR 839-050-0110
Representation of a Party in a Contested Case Proceeding
(1)
Any party may be represented by counsel, as that term is defined in OAR 839-050-0020 (Definitions)(13). At all stages of the contested case proceeding, all government agencies, partnerships, corporations and unincorporated associations must be represented either by counsel, who may perform all functions consistent with representation of a client, or by an authorized representative, subject to the limitations of sections (2) through (6) of this rule.(2)
For purposes of OAR chapter 839, division 50, “authorized representative” means a member of a partnership, an authorized officer or regular employee of a corporation, association or organized group, or an authorized officer or employee of a governmental agency.(3)
Before appearing in the case, an authorized representative must provide written authorization for the named representative to appear on behalf of the party or limited party. This written authorization must be provided no later than the time that an answer and request for hearing is filed.(4)
An authorized representative may not present legal argument during the contested case proceeding except to the extent authorized by section 5 of this rule. “Legal argument” includes arguments on:(a)
The jurisdiction of the agency to hear the contested case;(b)
The constitutionality of a statute or rule or the application of a constitutional requirement to an agency;(c)
The application of court precedent to the facts of the particular contested case proceeding.(5)
The Administrative Law Judge may allow the authorized representative to present evidence, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and make arguments relating to the:(a)
Application of statutes and rules to the facts in the contested case;(b)
Actions taken by the Agency in the past in similar situations;(c)
Literal meaning of the statutes or rules at issue in the contested case;(d)
Admissibility of evidence; and(e)
Proper procedures to be used in the contested case hearing.(6)
When a party is represented by an authorized representative in a hearing, the Administrative Law Judge will advise such representative of the manner in which objections may be made and matters preserved for appeal. Such advice is of a procedural nature and does not change applicable law on waiver or the duty to make timely objection. When such objections may involve legal argument as defined in section 4 of this rule, the Administrative Law Judge will provide reasonable opportunity for the authorized representative to consult legal counsel and permit such legal counsel to file written legal argument within a reasonable time after the conclusion of the hearing.(7)
A party that intends to be represented by counsel during the contested case proceeding, and that is not a government agency, partnership, corporation or unincorporated association, will notify the Forum of its intent to be represented by counsel as soon as practicable. Once the contested case hearing has begun, no party will be allowed a recess to obtain the services of counsel.
Source:
Rule 839-050-0110 — Representation of a Party in a Contested Case Proceeding, https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/view.action?ruleNumber=839-050-0110.