(a) Suspension shall be for a temporary period pending the completion of investigation and any ensuing legal proceedings unless sooner terminated by the suspending official or as provided in paragraph (b) of this section.

(b) If legal proceedings are not initiated within 12 months after the date of the suspension notice, the suspension shall be terminated unless an Assistant Attorney General requests its extension, in which case it may be extended for an additional 6 months. In no event may a suspension extend beyond 18 months, unless legal proceedings have been initiated within that period.

(c) The suspending official shall notify the Department of Justice of the proposed termination of any suspension, at least 30 days before the 12-month period expires, to give the Department an opportunity to request an extension.