HOW IS MY CASE RESOLVED?
Your case is resolved when there is an agreement between you and the claims administrator, or when a judge issues an order about what Workers' Compensation payments and future medical care will be provided to you. To protect your rights, whether or not you are represented by an attorney, settlements must be reviewed by a Workers’ Compensation administrative law judge to determine whether they are adequate.
What types of settlements are there?
There are two different ways to settle your case:
1. Stipulations with Request for Award (stips)
- Payments - You and the claims administrator agree on the amount of temporary or permanent disability payments you will receive. This is usually paid in weekly increments.
- Medical care - The claims administrator usually agrees to pay for needed medical care.
2. Compromise and Release (C&R)
- One payment - The claims administrator agrees on an amount to resolve your claim. This is usually paid in a lump sum.
- Medical care - If the lump sum includes the estimated cost of future medical care, the claims administrator will no longer pay your doctor. This becomes your responsibility.
What if my case doesn't settle?
If you and the claims administrator are unable to agree on a settlement, a Worker's Compensation judge will conduct a hearing on issues of law and evidence to resolve your dispute.