If the employer dismissed the claimant, it will be the employer's burden to prove that the claimant was dismissed due to misconduct. The Referee will usually ask questions of the witnesses and allow them to tell their story. The next witness is then called and the same procedure is followed. The Referee will close the hearing when neither side has any additional information or evidence to present. Most hearings involving a seperation last approximately 30 minutes.
All testimony given at the hearing is taken under oath and tape-recorded.
If you become confused at any time during the hearing, ask the Referee for assistance . Finally, it is important to remember that the goal of the hearing is to gather facts, not to get into an argument. Arguing or getting angry during a hearing prevents you from being able to to clearly state the facts of your case. You will give a much better presentation if you stay calm and do not allow emotionms to cloud the issues. Only evidence which has been presented at the hearing will be considered, therefore you should bring with you any documents or witnesses that can directly help your case .