Construction of Rules and Pleadings

PURPOSE: This rule clarifies the commission’s policy concerning the interpretations of its rules and of the pleadings before it. (1) These rules shall be construed to accomplish the purposes of Chapter 213, RSMo administered by the commission and the policies of the Missouri Commission on Human Rights and shall not be deemed or construed to limit the powers conferred upon the commission by Chapter 213, RSMo. (2) All pleadings shall be construed with a view to effect justice between the parties and the presiding officer and the commission panel, in every stage of any proceeding, shall disregard errors or defects in the pleadings or proceedings which do not affect the substantial rights of the parties. AUTHORITY: sections 213.030 and 213.101, RSMo (Cum. Supp. 1992).* Original rule filed April 15, 1988, effective July 11, 1988. *Original authority: 213.030, RSMo 1959, amended 1978, 1986, 1992 and 213.101, RSMo 1986, amended 1992.