(a) The rules of procedure in this section govern the practice for hearings afforded by the Department to Lead Agencies pursuant to § 98.18(c) or § 98.91, and the practice relating to the decisions of such hearings.

(b) Nothing in this part is intended to preclude or limit negotiations between the Department and the Lead Agency, whether before, during, or after the hearing, to resolve the issues which are, or otherwise would be, considered at the hearing. Such negotiations and resolution of issues are not part of the hearing and are not governed by the rules in this part, except as expressly provided herein.

(a) (1) The presiding officer at a hearing shall be the Assistant Secretary or the Assistant Secretary's designee.

(2) The designation of the presiding officer shall be in writing. A copy of the designation shall be served on all parties.

(b) The presiding officer, for all hearings, shall be bound by all applicable laws and regulations.

All pleadings, correspondence, exhibits, transcripts of testimony, exceptions, briefs, decisions, and other documents filed in the docket in any proceeding may be inspected and copied in the office of the Assistant Secretary. Inquiries may be made at the Administration for Children and Families, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., Washington, DC 20447.

With notice to all parties, the Assistant Secretary for Children and Families or the presiding officer, with respect to pending matters, may modify or waive any rule in this part upon determination that no party will be unduly prejudiced and the ends of justice will thereby be served.

(a) An original and two copies of all papers in the proceedings shall be filed with the presiding officer. For exhibits and transcripts of testimony, only the originals need be filed.

(b) All papers in the proceedings shall be served on all parties by personal delivery or by certified mail. Service on the party's designated attorney will be deemed service on the party.