The regulations do not specifically address the issue of joinder or consolidation, but the Immigration Judge has wide latitude to order consolidation if necessary to promote administrative efficiency. Matter of Taerghodsi, 16 I. & N. Dec. 260, 262-63 (BIA 1977) (citing former 8 C.F.R. 242.8(a)). Consolidation is proper when two or more hearings share the same or substantially similar evidence and material to matters at issue. 28 C.F.R. 68.16. Where a consolidated hearing is held, a single record of proceedings will be made, the evidence introduced in one matter may be considered as introduced in the others, and the hearing officer has discretion to make either a separate or joint decision. Id. This power or discretion to consolidate is subject to due process requirements. Matter of Taerghodsi, supra ("[I]t is within the power of the immigration judge to consolidate proceedings, if such consolidation does not serve to deny the respondent the right to fully and clearly litigate his claims.").
Thanks to Sheila Stuhlman