SECTION 735:80-13-7. Representation and participation in administrative proceedings

(a)   Representation. In an administrative proceeding the protestant may represent himself or herself at any stage of the proceeding or may be represented by:

(1)   an attorney;

(2)   an accountant; or,

(3)   a representative who has been approved by the Treasurer to represent the protestant.

(b)   Proper showing may be required. If a protestant wants to be represented by someone other than himself or herself, an attorney, or an accountant, the hearing examiner may require that such person, before being recognized as a representative of the protestant, make a proper showing that he or she is of good character and in good repute and possessed with necessary qualifications to enable the representative to render such services to the protestant. Upon such showing by the representative, the hearing examiner will certify the representative.

(c)   Proof of authority. Any person representing a protestant in any matter may be required at any time to show written proof, in a form satisfactory to the Treasurer, of his or her authority to represent such protestant in that matter.

(d)   Confidentiality of proceedings; participation of others. Proceedings are not open to the public unless confidentiality has been waived by the protestant or his representative. Any person who is not a party, not employed by a party, or not called as a witness, must obtain the permission of the hearing examiner before observing or participating during any stage of the proceeding.

[Source: Added at 17 Ok Reg 2167, eff 6-12-00]