What is a requirement for hearing procedures regarding timelines for a Rules Violation Report?

The requirement that the inmate must be present during the hearing, unless they choose to waive this right, is a fundamental principle of due process in the handling of Rules Violation Reports (RVRs) within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). The presence of the inmate ensures that they have the opportunity to hear the charges against them, respond to the evidence presented, and defend themselves. This procedural safeguard is designed to protect the rights of the inmate and maintain fairness in the disciplinary process.

While the other options incorporate important aspects of hearing procedures, they do not specifically address the inmate’s presence, which is a critical element of fair disciplinary proceedings. The importance of this requirement cannot be overstated, as it helps ensure that the process is transparent and just, allowing the inmate to participate actively in their defense.