Complainants' Rights in Fair Process.--General Provisions.--Those bringing complaints are to receive respectful, balanced treatment throughout any grievance and trial procedures. They shall receive comparable rights to those provided for the respondent. They shall receive reasonable response from church officers. Church officers shall seek to build reconciliation among all the parties at interest, so long as these efforts are not used to hinder fair process.
1. In any involuntary administrative or judicial proceeding, the complainant shall have a right to be heard before any final action is taken.
2. Notice of any hearing shall advise the complainant about the proposed procedures, with sufficient detail to allow the complainant to prepare. Notice shall be given not less than twenty (20) days prior to the hearing.
3. The complainant shall have the right to be accompanied by another person to any interview or hearing to which they are subject. The person accompanying them shall have the right of advocacy.
4. Under no circumstances shall one party or counsel, in the absence of the other party or counsel, discuss substantive matters with the members of the hearing, trial, or appellate body, while the case is pending. Questions of procedure may be raised with the presiding officer or secretary of the hearing or appellate body.
5. The complainant shall have the right to an answer to each question, allegation, specification, or other matter brought. Officials must provide grounds for their decisions, which are also to be shared with the complainant.
6. Confidentiality of the name and accusations of the complainant shall be maintained throughout the proceedings, except from the respondent, church officers identified by the Discipline, and hearing body members involved.
8. Special attention should be given to ensuring the racial, ethnic, and gender diversity of The United Methodist Church in boards, committees, and courts of The United Methodist Church.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22390-GJ-2622-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference