An application for a stay of proceedings is effectively asking the panel to end the current hearing because of a procedural issue which renders it impossible to continue without being unfair.
Either party can make an application for a stay of proceedings, however more often than not it will be a registrant asking for proceedings to be halted.
An application can be made on various grounds, including:
- apparent bias
- incompatibility with the rules of natural justice
The panel will hear from both parties and receive advice from the legal assessor before making a decision on an application for a stay.