Just because your
workers’ compensation claim was initially denied, doesn’t mean you should give up. Fortunately,
you have the right to fight the decision by contacting the Division of
Workers’ Compensation Insurance of the Texas Department of Insurance.
As soon as you receive your denial letter, first try to resolve the issues
with your employer or its insurance company. If a resolution cannot be
reached, you should request dispute resolution from the Division of Workers’
Compensation Insurance of the Texas Department of Insurance.
Benefit Review Conference
The “Benefit Review Conference" is the first stage of the appeal
process. This is an informal meeting where you and your employer's
representative discuss your denial with a Division of Workers’ Compensation
Benefit Review Officer. Similar to mediation, the goal is to obtain a
fair agreement, such as a settlement offer along with a written statement.
Arbitration & Contested Case Hearing
On the other hand, if the parties are not able to reach an agreement, the
next step can be either arbitration or a contested hearing.
At Arbitration, you will once again meet with a representative of your
employer. An arbitrator will attempt to make a decision on the matter
at hand. In the end, the arbitrator will come to a decision that is conclusive.
Although arbitration often doesn' take a long period of time and is
less expensive compared to a contested case hearing, if you choose to
participate in this process, you lose the ability to seek a contested
case hearing.
By contrast, you and your employer decide not to undergo arbitration, a
contested case hearing will be scheduled. Rather than an arbitrator, a
hearing officer from the Division of Workers’ Compensation oversee
the case. The officer will assess all of the evidence submitted, such
as medical records and witness accounts. In the end, the officer will
make a decision.
Appeals Panel
If you do not agree with the decision in the contested case hearing, you
may appeal to the Division of Workers’ Compensation Appeals Panel.
Written briefs that argue you and your employers positions must be submitted.
Briefs and the record from the contested hearing will be reviewd by the
panel, not any new evidence. The panel will either affirm, modify, or
reverse the decision in the contested case hearing.
Texas State Courts
If you disagree with the Appeals Panel decision, you can appeal to the
Texas State Courts. Due to the complexities of the legal process, it is
wise to hire an attorney to address the state courts, if you haven’t
hired one already.
Interested in appealing your denial in Fort Worth, TX with experienced
legal representation on your side? Request a
free consultation with the
Law Office of James M. Stanley today.