What does the Doctrine of Separation of Functions prohibit?

The Doctrine of Separation of Functions is integral to ensuring fair and impartial decision-making within administrative agencies. This principle mandates a clear distinction between different roles within an agency, particularly between those who investigate, enforce, and adjudicate. The prohibition against combinations that create bias in adjudication functions is vital because it helps to prevent a situation where the same individual or group both gathers evidence and makes decisions based on that evidence, which could lead to a lack of objectivity and fairness in the adjudicative process.

By keeping investigatory functions separate from those responsible for making final decisions or judgments, this doctrine aims to uphold the integrity of the decision-making process. This separation helps safeguard the rights of individuals and entities affected by agency actions, ensuring they receive a fair hearing before an impartial tribunal.

The incorrect choices revolve around broader concepts unrelated to the specific functions within administrative agencies. For instance, the idea of all forms of decision making within agencies being prohibited is overly broad and not accurate. Also, while collaboration between different branches of government exists within a framework of checks and balances, it does not fall under the specific purview of the separation of functions doctrine. Lastly, the enactment of new laws pertains to legislative processes, which again falls outside the scope of the administrative context where