Rule 6-409. Order of Proceedings.

(a) The hearing shall be opened by the filing of the oath of the arbitrators and by the recording of the place, time, and date of the hearing, the names of the arbitrators and parties, and of witnesses or counsel if any are present.

(b) The normal order of proceedings shall be the same as in a trial with the petitioner first presenting his or her claim. However, the arbitrators shall have the discretion to vary the normal order of proceedings and, in any case, shall afford full and equal opportunity to all parties for presentation of relevant proofs.

(c) The petitioner shall have the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence.