Office of Commission Appellate Adjudication

Director: Jody Martin

The Office of Commission Appellate Adjudication (OCAA) is responsible for assisting the Commission in the exercise of its quasi-judicial functions, including the resolution of appeals from decisions of the Atomic Safety and Licensing Boards. OCAA is responsible for providing the Commission analysis of adjudicatory matters requiring a Commission decision (e.g., appeals, petitions for review of initial licensing board decisions, certified questions, referred rulings, stay requests). Such analysis includes a discussion of options available to the Commission, and preparation of any necessary adjudicatory decisions ("CLIs") consistent with Commission policy and guidance. In cases involving significant or novel legal issues, OCAA may consult with the Office of the General Counsel in identifying options to be presented to the Commission, and in drafting the final decision to be proposed to the Commission.

In the performance of its duties, OCAA may request, as needed, advice in the form of Commission adjudicatory employees (AEs). AEs support the Commission by providing additional expertise in cases involving complex scientific and technical issues. OCAA also is responsible for monitoring cases pending before the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel, and advises the Commission if a Board or presiding officer departs from schedules or from Commission procedure or policy.