LAC 46:LX.3907. Informal Disposition of Complaints

A. The board, upon recommendation of the disciplinary committee and the person accused of a violation, may settle some complaints informally without a formal hearing. The disciplinary committee shall guide cases through any informal process, and, failing resolution, may recommend a formal hearing. The following types of informal dispositions may be utilized. 1. Disposition by Correspondence. For less serious complaints, the disciplinary committee may write to the person explaining the nature of the complaint received. The person's subsequent response may satisfactorily explain the situation, and the matter may be dropped. If the situation is not satisfactorily explained, it shall be pursued through an informal conference or formal hearing. 2. Informal Conference a. The disciplinary committee may hold a conference with the person in lieu of, or in addition to, correspondence in cases of less serious complaints. If the situation is satisfactorily explained in conference, a formal hearing is not scheduled. b. The person shall be given adequate notice of the conference, of the issues to be discussed, and of the fact that information brought out of the conference may later be used in a formal hearing. 3. Settlement. An agreement worked out between the person making the complaint and the person accused of a violation does not preclude disciplinary action by the board. The board must consider the nature of the alleged offense and the evidence before it.