Understanding how to use Independent Bill Review (IBR) is a key tool in lien litigation that can help resolve balance valuation disputes that used to extend the life of cases for years. Liens can be…
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What’s Missing at the WCAB
by John P. Kamin (November 6, 2023)
While the pandemic brought many positive changes to the California workers’ compensation system, there is one thing that has disappeared: Wifi. Those who have attended an in-person trial or expedited hearing at the WCAB in…
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Navigating Interpreter Liens for Medical Treatment
by Maya M. Tola (November 1, 2023)
Interpreters play a prominent role in the multi-lingual realm of the California workers’ compensation system, and determining the rate of compensation for interpreting services remains a highly litigated issue. In this blog post, we will…
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Newsom Vetoes Key Comp Bills, Ending a Quiet Comp Session for 2023
by John P. Kamin (October 17, 2023)
Gov. Gavin Newsom ended a relatively quiet 2023 legislative session with vetoes of a few key workers’ compensation bills on Independent Medical Review, PTSD presumptions, and skin cancer. The governor had one month to approve…
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The Nuts and Bolts of How Subpoenas Work
by Kimberly R. Wagner (October 16, 2023)
Subpoenas for production of documents are so common in California workers’ compensation that most ignore them, but it is still important to understand the nuances of them in order to utilize them effectively. “[T]he right…
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Proposal to Eliminate the 90 Would Affect MDR WCAB
by John P. Kamin (October 4, 2023)
A group of nonprofits have proposed eliminating a key freeway that would affect many of the people who drive to the Marina Del Rey Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. Nonprofit groups Streets for All and SWA…
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Analysis: How the CT Doctrine Undermines the Post-Termination Defense
by Daniel R. Stevens (September 1, 2023)
The post-termination defense may seem like a good defense against sketchy cumulative trauma claims, but a closer look at California statutes reveals how the Labor Code undermines that defense. Let’s take a moment to focus…
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Legislative Session Headed Down to the Wire
by John P. Kamin (September 1, 2023)
Lawmakers are considering a flurry of workers’ compensation bills as a September deadline nears for them to send legislative proposals to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for approval or veto. Sept. 14 marks the deadline for…
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Parties Likely to ask High Court to Review Earley Case
by John P. Kamin (August 30, 2023)
The defendants in the case of Earley v. WCAB are likely to ask the state Supreme Court to review the 2nd District Court of Appeal’s decision on the WCAB’s “grant for study” practice, according to…
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Covid Claims: Follow the Symptoms
by Zane P. Uribarri (August 21, 2023)
PQME evaluations in workers’ compensation cases can be tricky. With limited time, and sometimes limited records, a PQME must interview an applicant, make an evaluation, and issue an opinion on a wide range of topics…
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