(a) A hearing officer designated by the Attorney General shall conduct the hearing.

(b) The hearing officer may regulate the conduct of the hearing, require witnesses to attend the hearings, take proof and make relevant factual determinations.

(c) The respondent may appear at the hearing, cross examine witnesses and produce evidence on his or her own behalf. Should the applicant fail to appear at the hearing, the hearing officer shall hear the evidence given by the Attorney General and make his or her findings and recommendations on the basis of that evidence.

(d) The proceeding may be resolved by stipulation, consent order or default of any respondent.