# COMAR Title 14 — Independent Agencies

## Subtitle 37 — Office of the Public Ombudsman

### Chapter 02 — Process

#### Regulation .04 Timing.

*COMAR 14.37.02.04*

A. Ordinarily, the Ombudsman will handle matters in the order in which a request for dispute resolution is received and the file is opened.

B. The Ombudsman has discretion to handle a matter out of order if there is a compelling reason to do so.

C. Time for Mediation.

  (1) The Ombudsman has up to 90 days from the date a file is opened with the Office in which to attempt to resolve a dispute and bring a matter to closure.

  (2) The 90-day deadline may be extended if:

    (a) An extension is needed and desirable in light of the progress that has already been made to resolve the dispute;

    (b) An extension is likely to result in the ultimate resolution of the dispute; and

    (c) The applicant, the custodian, and the Ombudsman agree to the extension and the extension is confirmed in writing.