What to Expect at Your Workers’ Compensation Hearing

Workers’ compensation administration hearings are often conducted when claimants injured on the job have their claim denied. If this is the situation you have found yourself in, you have the right to appeal a denied claim. If you do so, you will be subject to the hearing process. The hearing process can be incredibly drawn out, and you might face several proceedings, settlement negotiations, and independent medical exams. 

A formal worker compensation hearing is the only time you will have to present your case before a judge to explain why you’re entitled to benefits. Below, Andrew Injury Law has detailed what you can expect at a worker’s compensation hearing to help you better prepare yourself. Should you receive a claim denial, our Nampa worker’s compensation lawyers can help you. 

Should I Hire a Lawyer Before My Workers’ Comp Hearing?

Handling a worker’s compensation hearing on their own is challenging for many injured workers. During your hearing, you’ll be responsible for convincing a judge that you’re entitled to benefits by making legal arguments and presenting evidence. 

This can be difficult, which is why it’s best to hire a lawyer before your worker’s compensation hearing. When you work with a lawyer, you can rest assured that they will handle the evidence of your case and present it truthfully and to your advantage. 

Get a Free Consultation

contact us or call us today

The Workers’ Comp Hearing Process

The worker’s compensation hearing process can be incredibly complex and time-consuming. Although it is complicated, the crux is to present your case to a judge who will consider it for its credibility when you are disputing a denial. 

Depending on the complexity of your case, it could take a few hours to several days for a judge to determine if you should be granted workers’ compensation benefits. Let’s take a closer look into the process often followed: 

• You and the insurance company will present evidence at the start of the hearing. This evidence often includes unpaid bills, medical records, employment records, evidence of lost wages, job search documentation, and expert reports. 
• After the evidence is presented, testimony occurs. During this point in the hearing, you will need to testify under oath about the symptoms you’re experiencing, your work-related injuries, your job duties, and any attempts you have made to return to work. 
• Once you have testified, you will be cross-examined by other parties, including the judge and the insurance company lawyer, so be concise when answering questions and don’t lie. 
• Once you have presented your testimony and been cross-examined, a judge will decide if you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. 

This is the basic process. If you want to learn more about what to expect you can speak with an Andrew Injury Law workers compensation attorney. 

Who Attends a Workers’ Comp Hearing?

Several people will attend a worker’s compensation hearing. Usually, those in attendance will be: 

• The worker’s compensation judge
• Your lawyer
• The insurance company’s lawyer

Your hearing could also include the following parties: 

• Witnesses like a doctor, co-workers, experts, and supervisors
• A court reporter
• Insurance company representatives
• Employer representatives. 

Contact a Nampa Workers’ Comp Attorney

Now you know better what to expect at your workers’ compensation benefits hearing. If you would like assistance with your case and hearing preparation, you should speak with a Nampa workers’ compensation attorney at Andrew Injury Law. 

Our lawyers have attended many hearings and can guide you through the process and work alongside you to ensure you have the best chance possible at receiving benefits. Contact our team here, and we will arrange an obligation-free meeting. 

Get a Free Consultation

contact us or call us today

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Matt

4 months ago

Matt was very helpful in explaining the law and setting realistic expectations about my mothers case. He listened to the facts and gave solid advice about what to do next. I know his time is valuable and limited so I appreciated his complementary consultation and advice. I will definitely turn to him in the future.

View More Reviews on Google Maps and Yelp