Workers' Compensation Hearings

Court Room

The Best Way to Prepare

Many of us have had a version of these dreams before: You show up to an exam but forgot to study. Or you stand up in a meeting only to realize you don't have your presentation ready. Being unprepared for any situation is stressful – now imagine showing up for a workers' compensation court hearing in front of a judge and attorneys whose only goal is to prove you wrong.

Would you know what to expect? Would you feel prepared?

This might be your first time going through Pennsylvania's workers' compensation system. Our attorneys have attended hundreds of hearings. We know how to prepare for your hearing, what evidence we'll have to present, and we'll pay all of the upfront costs associated with your hearing.

It is possible to go to a hearing on your own, but it's likely the judge will recommend you postpone the hearing and hire an attorney. The information below will give you an idea of why hiring an experienced workers' compensation lawyer is the best way to prepare for your work comp hearing.

If you want to talk to us about your hearing or any part of your workers' compensation claim, take advantage of our free legal consultation. We'll discuss your situation and your options and you won't be obligated to use our services. Call 412-394-1000 or fill out the form to the right.

If you do decide to hire us, you don't have to worry about how much it will cost. There's no fee unless and until we're successful in winning your work comp case.

What to Expect at Workers' Compensation Hearings

If you or your employer files a workers' compensation claim in Pennsylvania, typically a judge in the county where you live will be assigned to your case. You should be informed of the date, time, and place of the first hearing. Usually, you will need to attend a series of hearings, and you will be notified of the details of the next hearing at the end of the prior hearing.

At the first hearing, the judge expects all parties to have the evidence they need to prove their case. The parties must submit the appropriate exhibits, including medical reports. You, the injured worker, must testify at the first hearing.

Throughout the hearing process, the judge will review your work injury and listen to both sides of the case. Witnesses to the work injury will be questioned and cross-examined. Both parties will present evidence, including medical records and physician testimonies.

If you're at a hearing because your employer has filed a Petition to Terminate, Modify, or Suspend your benefits, it's extremely important to be prepared at the very first hearing. The judge may make a decision on the spot whether your benefits should continue, stop, or be modified until the petition is resolved.

Following the last hearing, the judge will issue a written decision to everyone involved in your case. If the judge's decision is in your favor, your employer may file an appeal. You also can file an appeal if you don't agree with the judge's decision.

How Our Workers' Compensation Attorneys Can Help

Pennsylvania's workers' compensation law is complex and can be very confusing for someone who is unfamiliar with the law. There are many technicalities you probably aren't aware of, and it's possible to harm your case without realizing it. We know the law inside and out. We'll make sure all the bases are covered and that everything is done according to the books.

If you have to attend a workers' compensation hearing, here's what we'll do for you:

  • We'll identify all the evidence that needs to be submitted to the judge.
  • We'll prepare you before the hearing so you know what to expect and what will be required of you.
  • We'll guide you through your testimony at the hearing to make sure you present your case as effectively as possible.
  • We'll keep track of all the paperwork and make sure all deadlines are met.
  • We'll handle your employer's insurance company. You won't have to worry about dealing with them or figuring out what you should and shouldn't say to them.
  • You might not know this, but gathering the necessary evidence is expensive. You'll need medical reports and records, and you have to pay for them. If you hire us, we'll cover all of those costs.
  • We'll talk to witnesses and physicians to build the strongest case possible.
  • We'll be available to answer all of your questions – we want you to feel comfortable about what we're doing and why.