SETTLEMENT CONFERENCES

Subpart 1. Purpose. A settlement conference is for the primary purpose of assisting the parties in resolving the disputes and for the secondary purpose of narrowing the issues and preparing for hearing. Subp. 2. Attendance. All parties, including intervenors unless otherwise excused, shall attend personally or by representative any settlement conference conducted by a judge. A representative of a party shall be prepared to engage in meaningful settlement negotiations and shall have authority to reach a full settlement on the issues in dispute or have immediate access by telephone to a person having authority to reach a full settlement. Subp. 3. Preconference demand and offer. The petitioner shall provide a claims summary and settlement demand to the opposing parties one week in advance of a settlement conference. The respondent shall respond to the opposing parties with an offer of settlement or response at least one working day before the settlement conference.