When a case is referred to the Tribunal, the Chairperson assigns either one or three Members to hear the case.
All members take an oath of office prior to being assigned to their first case.
They must also adhere to the principles established by the Code of Conduct for Members of the Human Rights Tribunal Panel . In addition to administrative duties, the Chairperson usually continues to hear cases. Once the Canadian Human Rights Commission determines that an inquiry is warranted, it is the Chairperson's duty to select Members to inquire into the complaint. The Chairperson decides if the Tribunal will consist of one or three Members. Normal practice has been for the Chairperson to select one Member to conduct a case planning conference and then determine if more are needed for the full hearing.