If you must attend an ECB hearing, it is important to understand the terminology used. Here are some noteworthy terms that may be used:
Appeal: If either you or the opposing agency does not agree with the outcome of the hearing, you may appeal via writing to keep the case open and argue your case.
Contest: Being able to defend yourself against a violation during a hearing.
Dismissed: The case has been dropped, and you are not required to pay any penalties.
Hazardous Violations: These violations are more urgent, and won’t be given a cure date
Non-Hazardous Violations: You may be able to cure the violation if this is your first time receiving this.
In Violation: You have been found to not be in compliance. You need to correct the situation, submit a Certificate of Correction, and pay penalties.
Mitigation: It may be possible to pay a smaller penalty if you correct the issue before the hearing.
Stipulation: This is an admission of guilt, but it gives a 75 day period after the hearing to correct the violation. During this time, inspectors cannot target the same problem and issue a violation for it.
- If it’s non-hazardous and this is your first violation, you may be offered stipulation via mail.