A requirement for a hearing to be postponed by mutual consent is rooted in the principles of fairness and cooperation between the parties involved. When both parties agree to postpone the hearing, it often indicates a willingness to find a resolution or to adequately prepare for the proceedings. This collaborative approach can help ensure that the hearing is conducted effectively, allowing all parties to present their case fully without undue pressure.
In various legal and administrative contexts, postponements are typically granted based on mutual consent to maintain the integrity of the process. This standard is beneficial in situations where additional time might lead to a more equitable and satisfactory outcome. Without mutual consent, postponements might not reflect the best interests of all parties involved, potentially leading to one party being favored over another.
The other options, while potentially valid in different contexts, do not capture this spirit of cooperation needed for a postponement. For instance, allowing a postponement solely at the discretion of the commissioner could lead to an imbalance of power, while a majority committee vote might limit the opportunities for one party that may require additional time to prepare.