WAC 388-02-0175. What is a prehearing meeting?

(1) A prehearing meeting is an informal meeting with a DSHS representative that may be held before any prehearing conference or hearing. (2) A DSHS representative may contact you before the scheduled hearing to arrange a prehearing meeting. You may also contact DSHS to request a prehearing meeting. (3) A prehearing meeting is voluntary. You are not required to request one and you are not required to participate in one. (4) The prehearing meeting includes you and/or your representative, the DSHS representative, and any other party. An ALJ does not attend a prehearing meeting. (5) The prehearing meeting gives the parties an opportunity to: (a) Clarify issues; (b) Exchange documents and witness statements; (c) Resolve issues through agreement or withdrawal; and (d) Ask questions about the hearing process and the laws and rules that apply. (6) A prehearing meeting may be held or information exchanged: (a) In person; (b) By telephone conference call; (c) Through correspondence; or (d) Any combination of the above that is agreeable to the parties. (7) If a prehearing conference is required by the program or rule, a prehearing meeting may not be an option available to you.