(a) The hearing officer shall have the power to administer oaths and affirmations, issue subpoenas and otherwise control the conduct of the hearing.

(b) The hearing officer shall not be bound by the rules of evidence observed by courts, except that the rules of privilege recognized by law shall be respected.

(c) The hearing officer, with the consent of all parties, may waive any time requirement provided for in this Part.

(d) The hearing officer may consult on questions of law with the office's counsel or another designated office attorney, provided that said attorney has not been engaged in investigative or prosecutorial functions in connection with the proceeding under consideration or a factually related adjudicatory proceeding.