What must the Board do if a party's counsel wishes to file objections?

The requirement that the Board must permit objections to be filed only by counsel aligns with standard procedural conduct in legal settings. This rule ensures that all parties involved are represented by someone knowledgeable about the legal system, which helps maintain the integrity and formality of the proceedings. Counsel is trained to understand the nuances of the law, which is particularly important in hearings or assessments as the Board may need to consider complex legal arguments.

Allowing only counsel to file objections prevents laypersons from potentially making errors that could undermine their positions or the legal process. It guarantees that objections are framed appropriately and grounded in legal precedent and statutory authority. This promotes a more orderly and efficient resolution of matters before the Board.

Other options, while they might seem reasonable, do not align with the professional standards expected in such settings. Allowing filing by anyone could lead to irrelevant or improperly articulated objections. Filing without representation might lead to confusion over the legal basis for objections. Adjusting rules for convenience could compromise fairness and consistency in the proceedings.