How is a Workers Compensation case resolved?
Workers’ Compensation claims are decided by a workers Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) judge. The judge’s decision, called a Findings and Award, may provide for future medical care, and may be reopened within five years of the date of the injury. If both sides agree on all the issues, they may sign a stipulated request for an award. The judge may base the award on this request. In other cases, both sides to a disputed claim may decide to agree on a lump sum payment to settle the case. This is called a Compromise and Release, and must be approved by the WCAB judge. Once approved, the employer is released from all responsibility for future medical care, as well as other benefits.
