New Mexico Administrative Code
Title 10 - PUBLIC SAFETY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Chapter 4 - DISTRICT ATTORNEYS
Part 10 - APPEALS AND ADJUDICATION
Section 10.4.10.15 - HEARING OFFICER

A. The hearing officer shall not participate in any adjudicatory proceeding if, for any reason, the hearing officer cannot afford a fair and impartial hearing to either party. Either party may ask to disqualify the designated hearing officer for cause by filing an affidavit of disqualification within fourteen (14) calendar days of the pre-hearing order. The affidavit must state the particular grounds for disqualification. The designated hearing officer shall rule on motions for disqualification and an appeal of the ruling may be made to the board within fourteen (14) calendar days of the hearing officer's ruling.

B. Appeals from employees of the district attorney's office shall be heard by the board, a member of the board designated as hearing officer or a state personnel office designated hearing officer.

C. The hearing officer may dismiss an appeal with prejudice in accordance with the provisions of a settlement agreement approved by the hearing officer or upon the filing of a motion to withdraw the appeal at any time before the deadline for the completion of discovery.

D. The hearing officer may dismiss an appeal with prejudice upon the filing of a motion to withdraw the appeal after the deadline for the completion of discovery upon such terms and conditions as the hearing officer deems proper, up to and including the assessment of costs.

E. Persons shall not discuss the merits of any pending hearing or proceeding with the designated hearing officer or member of the board unless both parties, or their representatives, are present.