General provisions

(a) A respondent may agree to enter into a written consent order or stipulation in any matter pending before the Commission and in lieu of a hearing in a contested case. The adoption of a consent order is within the complete discretion of the Commission. (b) Any attorney who attempts to negotiate a settlement, consent order or stipulation on behalf of a respondent or other individual or entity shall file an appearance, letter of representation or statement of authority to conduct negotiations on behalf of such respondent, individual or entity. (c) A consent order or stipulation shall contain: (1) an admission of all jurisdictional facts; (2) an express waiver of the requirements that the decision of the Commission contain findings of facts and conclusions of law separately stated; (3) an express waiver of the right to seek judicial review or otherwise contest the validity of the order; (4) a statement that the consent order or stipulation shall have the same force and effect as provided by statute for other final decisions or orders and shall become final when issued; and (5) the signature of the chairperson of the Commission or an authorized representative.