conduct or competence which could result in a major adverse action, the covered employee is entitled, within the aggregate time period specified in paragraph (4), to the following: (i) Advance written notice from the deciding official specifically stating the basis for each charge, the adverse actions that could be taken if the charges are sustained, a statement of any specific law, regulation, policy, procedure, practice, or other specific instruction that has been violated with respect to each charge, and a file containing all the evidence in support of each charge, except that the requirement for notification in advance may be waived if there is reasonable cause to believe that the employee has committed a crime for which the employee may be imprisoned. (ii) The opportunity, within the time period provided for in paragraph (4), to present an answer orally and in writing to the deciding official, who shall be an official higher in rank than the charging official, and to submit affidavits and other documentary evidence in support of the answer. The period for the response of a covered employee shall be seven business days. (B) Right to representation In any case described in paragraph (1), the employee is entitled to be represented by an attorney or other representative of the employee's choice at all stages of the case. (2) Final decision by deciding officer After considering the employee's answer, if any, and within the time period provided for in paragraph (5)(B), the deciding official shall render a decision on the charges. The decision shall be in writing and shall include the deciding official provides notice on the charges for purposes of paragraph (1)(A)(i). (3) Appeals to the Board The Secretary shall require that any appeal to a Board from a decision to impose a major adverse action shall be received within seven business days after the date of service of the written decision on the covered employee. (4) Timing The aggregate period for the resolution of charges against an employee under this