(a) The parties to the appeal are the respondent and ORI. The investigating institution is not a party to the case unless it is a respondent.

(b) Except as otherwise limited by this subpart, the parties may:

(1) Be accompanied, represented, and advised by an attorney;

(2) Participate in any case-related conference held by the ALJ; and

(3) File motions or briefs in writing before the ALJ.

(c) The parties have no right to discovery before the ALJ.