7 C.F.R. § 202.40
The Director shall, before any violation of this act is reported to any U.S. attorney for institution of a criminal proceeding, notify the person against whom such proceeding is contemplated that action is contemplated, inform him regarding the facts involved, and afford him an opportunity to present his views, either orally or in writing, with regard to such contemplated proceeding. Notice shall be served upon such person in the manner provided in § 202.27 of this part. If the person desires to explain the transaction or otherwise to present his views, he shall file with the Director, within 20 days after the service of the notice, an answer, in duplicate, signed by him or by his attorney, or shall request, within the 20 days, an opportunity to express his views orally. The request shall be embodied in a writing signed by the person or by his attorney or agent. Such opportunity to present his views orally shall be afforded at a time and place to be designated by the Director and it shall be given within a time not to exceed 10 days after the date of the filing of the request therefor.
7 C.F.R. §202.40