(a) If proper grounds are not shown, or if the petition is not timely filed, the judge will:

(1) Issue an order denying the petition for rehearing and including the reasons for denial; and

(2) Furnish copies of the order to the petitioner, the agencies, and the interested parties.

(b) If the petition appears to show merit, the judge must:

(1) Cause copies of the petition and supporting papers to be served on all persons whose interest in the estate might be adversely affected if the petition is granted;

(2) Allow all persons served a reasonable, specified time in which to submit answers or legal briefs in response to the petition; and

(3) Consider, with or without a hearing, the issues raised in the petition.

(c) The judge may affirm, modify, or vacate the former decision.

(d) On entry of a final order, the judge must distribute the order as provided in this part. The order must include a notice stating that interested parties who are adversely affected have a right to appeal the final order to the Board, within 30 days of the date on which the order was mailed, and giving the Board's address.

[73 FR 67289, Nov. 13, 2008. Redesignated at 76 FR 7507, Feb. 10, 2011]