§484-11 Investigations and proceedings. (a) The director of commerce and consumer affairs may:

(1) Make necessary public or private investigations within or outside of this State to determine whether any person has violated or is about to violate this chapter or any rule or order hereunder, or to aid in the enforcement of this chapter or in the prescribing of rules and forms hereunder;

(2) Require or permit any person to file a statement in writing, under oath or otherwise as the director determines, as to all the facts and circumstances concerning the matter to be investigated.

(b) For the purpose of any investigation or proceeding under this chapter, the director or any officer designated by rule may administer oaths or affirmations, and upon its own motion or upon request of any party shall subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any matter which is relevant to the investigation, including the existence, description, nature, custody, condition, and location of any books, documents, or other tangible things and the identity and location of persons having knowledge of relevant facts or any other matter reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of material evidence.

(c) Upon failure to obey a subpoena or to answer questions propounded by the investigating officer and upon reasonable notice to all persons affected thereby, the director may apply to the circuit court for an order compelling compliance.

(d) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, all proceedings under this chapter shall be in accordance with chapter 91. [L 1967, c 223, §11; HRS §484-11; am L 1982, c 204, §8; am L 1983, c 124, §17]