On written request, how many days before a hearing must the board schedule a pre-hearing conference?

The correct answer is tied to the procedural requirements set forth by the governing statutes or regulations concerning optometry in Arizona. In this case, the law stipulates that when a written request is made for a pre-hearing conference, the board is required to schedule that conference at least 10 days prior to the hearing date. This timeline is established to ensure that all parties involved have adequate notice and opportunity to prepare for the hearing, facilitating a more organized process and promoting fairness in the legal proceedings.

Understanding this timeline is crucial for practicing optometrists and other stakeholders to ensure they are compliant with legal protocols and can effectively participate in the hearings. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to specific procedural deadlines, which are in place to support orderly and efficient administrative processes.