In some cases, the ALJ or Board may want the parties to submit written instead of oral arguments. Depending on your case, you may want to bring witnesses who know about the issues involved in the charges against you. If there are documents, such as business records, that help prove your case, try to bring the original and two copies. You may bring photographs or other items that are relevant to your defense. Items you want considered must be left with the ALJ or the Board.
Cases often settle without going to hearing.
Settlement provides parties with the opportunity to fashion their own remedy to a problem and is especially useful when the parties will have an ongoing relationship after the appeal process is concluded. Contact the opposing party's attorney to see if you can work something out. If you are represented by an attorney in your appeal before the Board, your attorney should also participate in any settlement negotiations. The parties may conduct their own settlement negotiations, or call on SPBR for assistance. If both parties are willing to have SPBR participate in the settlement process, a confidential, informal settlement conference will be scheduled to determine whether or not a compromise agreement can be reached.