Additional Rules of Procedure in the Trial of Disciplinary Actions

In all Disciplinary Actions brought under this part, the following additional rules apply:

A. Disciplinary Actions are civil in nature.

B. Except as varied by these rules, the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure apply.

C. Disciplinary Actions must be proved by a preponderance of the evidence.

D. The burden of proof in a Disciplinary Action seeking Sanction is on the Commission. The burden of proof in reinstatement cases is upon the applicant.

E. The parties to a Disciplinary Action may not seek abatement or delay of trial because of substantial similarity to the material allegations in any other pending civil or criminal case.

F. The unwillingness or neglect of a Complainant to assist in the prosecution of a Disciplinary Action, or a compromise and settlement between the Complainant and the Respondent, does not alone justify the abatement or dismissal of the action.

G. It shall be the policy of the Commission to participate in alternative dispute resolution procedures where feasible; provided, however, that Disciplinary Actions shall be exempt from any requirements of mandatory alternative dispute resolution procedures as provided by Chapter 154 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code or as otherwise provided by law.