Parties are allowed to contact the ALJ with questions they might have about how the hearing will be conducted and the rules they must follow. However, because the ALJ must listen impartially to the evidence, the ALJ can only consider facts and arguments presented when all parties are present. The ALJ cannot speak with another party about any case in the absence of a party and they cannot discuss the specific facts about their case with the ALJ unless the other party is present. All communication, both verbal and written, to the ALJ must also be sent or must include the other party. It is also required to send a photocopy of your correspondence to the persons representing the other parties or directly to any party who is not represented.