SECTION 144.14. Usual Order of Proceedings

(a) The arbitration proceeding will begin with preliminary matters including the introduction of copies of the election of arbitration and the assignment of the arbitrator, the introduction of all parties and representatives, statements for the record of the date, time, and place of the proceedings, and a concise statement of the disputed issue(s).

(b) An electronic recording of the proceeding will be made by the arbitrator.

(c) The arbitrator will allow and may assist each party to make a brief opening statement setting forth its position on unresolved issues and the issues with respect to which it is prepared to stipulate.

(d) The requestor shall be the first party to present all relevant evidence desired in support of the claim including the testimony of witnesses.

(e) Following the requestor's presentation of evidence, the other party to the proceeding may present evidence desired to be considered by the arbitrator, including the calling of witnesses.

(f) After each party has presented the evidence desired, the arbitrator may call for additional evidence that the arbitrator considers necessary for a proper understanding and determination of the issues.

(g) Each party may present closing statements as desired, but the record may not remain open for written briefs unless requested by the arbitrator.

Source Note: The provisions of this §144.14 adopted to be effective December 31, 1991, 16 TexReg 7358; amended to be effective May 31, 2012, 37 TexReg 3856