Vacate: Settlement Recommendation

07F-G0187-ROC · Registrar of Contractors · 2007-12-03

IN THE OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS

HEARING: December 3, 2007 APPEARANCES: Complainants were represented by their attorney, Michael Wales and Respondent was represented by its attorney, Kent Cammack. ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE: Mark A. Silver ________________________________________________________________

Based upon the entire record in this matter, the following Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Recommended Order are made:

FINDINGS OF FACT

1. Following a discussion with the parties, prior to commencement of the instant hearing, the parties concluded a settlement agreement, the essential terms of which were read upon the record.

2. Pursuant to the terms of the aforementioned settlement agreement, Respondent agreed to pay the sum of $15,000.00 to Complainants on or before December 20, 2007[1]. Complainants agreed to withdraw the filed complaint.

3. The parties agreed that all rights and defenses were to be merged into the settlement agreement and if any petition for rehearing of this matter was to be filed and granted, or if any new complaint was filed, the sole issues for determination shall be whether the parties have performed their respective obligations under the terms of the aforesaid settlement agreement.

4. The terms of the forgoing settlement were determined to be the product of knowing and voluntary action on the part of each party.

5. Based on the settlement agreement, the hearing was vacated. CONCLUSIONS OF LAW

1. The policy of the law favors settlements of disputes and adverse parties should be free to adjust their differences by entry into agreements or stipulations of settlement which should be recognized and given effect by all tribunals.

2. The settlement reached and submitted during the hearing of this matter, having been found to be voluntarily made, warrants the termination of the instant hearing.

ORDER

In view of the foregoing, it is recommended that this matter be vacated from the calendar of the Office of Administrative Hearings and remanded to the referring Agency for appropriate disposition.

Done this day, December 3, 2007.

_________________________________ Mark A. Silver Administrative Law Judge

Copy transmitted by mail this _____ day of _________, 2007 to:

Fidelis V. Garcia, Director Registrar of Contractors Legal Department 800 West Washington, 6th Floor Phoenix, AZ 85007

By _______________________________

----------------------- [1] Respondent has previously tendered a personal check to Complainants in the amount of $15,000.00 and the check is post-dated for December 20, 2007.

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Office of Administrative Hearings 1400 West Washington, Suite 101 Phoenix, Arizona 85007 (602) 542-9826