1.956—Settlement conferences.
Parties are encouraged to use alternative dispute resolution procedures to settle disputes. See subpart E of this part. In any contested proceeding, the Commission, in its discretion, may direct the parties or their attorneys to appear before it for a conference.
(1)
To obtain admissions of fact or stipulations between the parties as to any or all of the matters in controversy;
(2)
To consider the necessity for or desirability of amendments to the pleadings, or of additional pleadings or evidentiary submissions;
(b)
Conferences are scheduled by the Commission at a time and place it may designate, to be conducted in person or by telephone conference call.
(c)
The failure of any party or attorney, following reasonable notice, to appear at a scheduled conference will be deemed a failure to prosecute, subjecting that party's application or petition to dismissal by the Commission.
[63 FR 68935, Dec. 14, 1998]