Sec. 19. (a) The commission, or the masters when the hearing is before the masters, may proceed with the hearing whether or not the judge files an answer or appears at the hearing.
(b) The failure of a judge to answer or to appear at the hearing by itself is not evidence of the facts alleged and does not constitute grounds for censure, retirement, or removal. In a proceeding for involuntary retirement for disability, the failure of a judge to testify in the judge's own behalf or to submit to a medical examination requested by the commission or the masters may be considered, unless the failure was due to circumstances beyond the judge's control.
(c) The hearing shall be reported verbatim.
(d) At a hearing before the commission, not less than four (4) members must be present when the evidence is produced.
[Pre-2004 Recodification Citation: 33-2.1-6-13.]
As added by P.L.98-2004, SEC.17.