Within how many days must a hearing be requested after a cease and desist order is served?

• A. 7 days
• B. 10 days
• C. 14 days
• D. 21 days

Answer: (B)

The time limit being tested is the deadline to request a hearing after a cease and desist order is served. When such an order is issued, you have a window to contest it by asking for a hearing. The standard period is ten days because it strikes a balance between giving you enough time to prepare and allowing the regulatory process to move forward promptly. The clock starts when the order is served, and it generally runs in calendar days unless the rule specifies business days or tolls for holidays; if the last day falls on a weekend or holiday, it’s usually extended to the next business day. Missing this ten-day window typically means the order becomes effective without a hearing. Seven days would be too short for a meaningful hearing, while fourteen or twenty-one days extend beyond the usual requirement, which is why ten days is the correct timeframe.