6.13—Answer to application.
(a)
Within 30 days after service of an application, counsel representing the agency
against which an award is sought shall file an answer to the application.
(b)
If agency counsel and the applicant believe that the issues in the fee
application can be settled, they may jointly file a statement of their intent to
negotiate a settlement. The filing of this statement shall extend the time for
filing an answer for an additional 60 days and further extensions may be granted by
the adjudicative officer upon request by agency counsel and the applicant.
(c)
The answer shall explain any objections to the award requested and identify the
facts relied on in support of agency counsel's position. If the answer is based on
any alleged facts not already in the record of the proceeding, agency counsel shall
include with the answer supporting affidavits.