Under section 14, when may the court dispense with the rules?

The court's ability to dispense with the rules under section 14 is designed to ensure flexibility and efficiency in legal proceedings. The correct answer reflects that the court can make this determination at any stage of the proceedings if it finds it appropriate to do so. This allows the court to adapt to the unique circumstances of a case and facilitate just outcomes, rather than rigidly adhering to procedural rules that might not serve the interests of justice in every situation.

Flexibility is crucial in legal processes, especially in complex or unique cases where strict adherence to procedural rules may hinder progress or result in unfairness. The other options suggest limitations that do not align with the discretionary power that the court possesses under this provision. For example, requiring a judge's presence or the necessity of agreement from all parties may unnecessarily restrict the court's ability to manage cases effectively. Thus, the correct understanding lies in recognizing the court's discretionary ability to dispense with rules to better serve the ends of justice.