Opinion ID: 2361634
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Did the appeals referee act impermissibly?

Text: Haggard argues that the appeals tribunal referee acted beyond the scope of an impartial judge by asking questions of witnesses and seeking admission of documents. The hearing officer must ensure that the facts of the case are sufficiently developed to make a decision on the issues. See Smith v. LIRC, 656 S.W.2d 812, 818-19 (Mo.App.1983). 8 CSR 10-5.015(10)(A) provides, in relevant part: The hearing officer shall review the issues presented and set forth the procedures to be followed during the hearing. . . . The hearing officer may examine all parties and witnesses and shall determine the order of testimony and procedure for each hearing. The hearing tribunal referee acted properly in questioning witnesses and obtaining documents for review before deciding Haggard's case. Haggard's assertions to the contrary are without merit.