The function of the Independent Review Panel is to provide impartial, independent, and open investigation and disposition of serious complaints of alleged wrongdoing. The Panel may also review procedures and policies or general patterns of conduct which gives rise to conflict and misunderstanding between the County and the public. The Panel’s rules of procedure state that the Panel shall "promote the highest possible degree of mutual respect between the agencies, instrumentalities and employees of Miami-Dade County and the people of Miami-Dade County."

2. Review Format for Complaints
The Chairperson presents the format for complaint review. The focus of the complaint review will be on the findings and recommendations in the "Staff/Committee Recommendation to the Panel" report.

The overview should include:

The Complainant’s Allegations.
The Critical Issues Discussed in the Committee Meeting.
The Committee Findings & Recommendations.

3. Invitation to Speak Before the Panel
The Chairperson invites the complainant to sit at the guest table to provide any new information that is not included in the "Staff/Committee Recommendation to the Panel" report, and/or to comment on the findings and recommendations in the report. After the complainant speaks, the representatives from the department will be invited to do the same. 

The Panel members may direct questions regarding any aspect of the complaint and/or investigation to the complainant and/or the department representatives. Questions may also be directed to Panel staff. All parties who wish to speak must ask to be recognized by the Chairperson. Any questions a party may wish to ask another party must be directed through the Chairperson, and not to each other.

4. Closing of Floor Discussion & Panel Vote
The Chairperson closes the period of public comment and the Panel then commences discussion and disposition of the complaint. The Panel renders its disposition by way of a motion.

5. Appreciation for Participation
Before moving on to the next agenda item, the Chairperson thanks the complainant and department representatives for their attendance and participation, and advises that each one will receive a copy of the final Panel Disposition Report.

Adopted by the Panel on December 22, 1998.