(a) Unless the Commission has issued an order dismissing the complaint, it shall serve on the respondent, by registered or certified mail, a formal statement of the charge and notice of a hearing at a time and place specified in the notice. A copy of the notice shall be furnished to the complainant, Attorney General, and any other party to the proceeding.
(b) The respondent may file an answer, under oath, with the Commission in person or by registered or certified mail in accordance with the Commission's rules. The Commission shall furnish a copy of the answer to the complainant and any other party to the proceeding. The complainant or the Commission may amend a complaint and the respondent may amend an answer at any time prior to the issuance of an order based on the charge.
(c) A respondent shall have the right to appear at the hearing with or without representation, may examine and cross-examine witnesses and the complainant, and may offer evidence. The complainant may intervene, examine and cross-examine witnesses and present evidence. In the discretion of the Commission, any party in interest may intervene, examine and cross-examine witnesses and present evidence.