§ 33-39-16 - Violations of chapter -- Service of statement of charges and notice of hearing; conduct of hearing - Georgia Statutes

O.C.G.A. 33-39-16 (2010)
33-39-16. Violations of chapter -- Service of statement of charges and notice of hearing; conduct of hearing

(a) Whenever the Commissioner has reason to believe that an insurance institution, agent, or insurance-support organization has been or is engaged in conduct in this state which violates this chapter, or if the Commissioner believes that an insurance-support organization has been or is engaged in conduct outside this state which has an effect on a person residing in this state and which violates this chapter, the Commissioner shall issue and serve upon such insurance institution, agent, or insurance-support organization a statement of charges and notice of hearing to be held at a time and place fixed in the notice. The date for such hearing shall be not less than 30 days after the date of service.

(b) At the time and place fixed for such hearing the insurance institution, agent, or insurance-support organization charged shall have an opportunity to answer the charges against it and present evidence on its behalf. Upon good cause shown, the Commissioner shall permit any adversely affected person to intervene, appear, and be heard at such hearing by counsel or in person.

(c) At any hearing conducted pursuant to this Code section, the Commissioner may administer oaths, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and receive oral and documentary evidence. The Commissioner shall have the power to subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance, and require the production of books, papers, records, correspondence, and other documents which are relevant to the hearing. A stenographic record of the hearing shall be made upon the request of any party or at the discretion of the Commissioner. If no stenographic record is made and if judicial review is sought, the Commissioner shall prepare a statement of the evidence for use on review. Hearings conducted under this Code section shall be governed by the same rules of evidence and procedure as set forth in Chapter 2 of this title.

(d) Statements of charges, notices, orders, and other processes of the Commissioner under this chapter may be served by anyone duly authorized to act on behalf of the Commissioner. Service of process may be completed in the manner provided by law for service of process in civil actions or by registered mail or statutory overnight delivery. A copy of the statement of charges, notice, order, or other process shall be provided to the person or persons whose rights under this chapter have been allegedly violated. A verified return setting forth the manner of service, or return postcard receipt in the case of registered mail or statutory overnight delivery shall be sufficient proof of service.