(a) If at any time the Attorney General or an Assistant Attorney General designated by the Attorney General transmits to the Secretary a written finding that continuation of the administrative process described in this subpart with respect to a claim or statement may adversely affect any pending or potential criminal or civil action related to such claim or statement, the judicial officer shall stay the process immediately.

(b) If the judicial officer stays the administrative process in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section, the judicial officer may order the process resumed only upon receipt of the written authorization of the Attorney General.