What is the director's role in conducting hearings?

The director’s role in conducting hearings is characterized by fulfilling duties in a quasi-judicial capacity. This means that the director acts in a manner similar to a judge during the hearings, making determinations based on evidence, assessing the legality of the processes, and ensuring fairness in the proceedings. The director is responsible for overseeing the rules of evidence, maintaining order, and facilitating the hearing process to help resolve disputes in a just manner.

This quasi-judicial function distinguishes the director from other roles, such as that of an observer, legal advisor, or mediator. As an observer, the director would not actively participate in the decision-making process. In a legal advisor role, the director would provide counsel, which is not typically part of the hearing process. As a mediator, the focus would be on helping the parties reach a voluntary agreement, rather than making binding decisions based on arguments and evidence presented. Thus, the quasi-judicial capacity effectively encompasses the responsibilities and authority the director holds in conducting hearings.