News

On January 13, 2025, the Full Commission reviewed a previously entered Opinion (June 28, 2024) finding that the claimant had failed to prove an injury by accident arising out of employment in the matter of Beenish Ahmed V. Wal-Mart Associates, Inc. The Full Commission affirmed the initial opinion, that the claimant had failed to meet her burden to prove her injury arose out of added-risk of her employment. The analysis the Full Commission applied will likely have significant effects on the Commission’s application of a “reasonable inference” that the cause of any ladder-related fall was a work-related risk. The reasoning...

Click here to watch this month’s one minute adjuster tip that is on the topic of:  Medical Panels

The Court of Appeals delivered an early Christmas present to employers in Virginia on December 17, 2024 making clear that the doctrine of “unexplained accident” remains alive in Virginia. The opinion is Loudoun County Public Schools v. Claudia Santi, Record No.: 1298-23-4 (December 17, 2024). This case has a long procedural history. Claimant was injured in a workplace fall in early 2020. She filed a Claim for Benefits with the Commission, which was denied. She then requested a hearing, where the claim was again denied by a Deputy Commissioner. Claimant requested review by the Full Commission. On review, the Full...

As we approach our 7th year in business, it brings us so much joy to be a part of such a strong community of professionals. Thank you all. Click here for holiday video message

Registration has now opened for the following events: 24th Annual Workers’ Compensation Seminar – Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM Seminar Agenda 2nd Annual General Liability Pre-conference Workshop – Wednesday, September 17, 2025 from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Pre-Conference Agenda Location:  The Westin Richmond, 6631 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23230 CEU’s will be available We hope to see you at these events!

Click here to watch this month’s one minute adjuster tip that is on the topic of:  Unlawful Employees

The Full Commission in the recent Opinion of Powell v. Haverty Furniture Company, Inc., JCN: 2317668 (November 18, 2024) reversed the decision of the Deputy Commissioner and allowed a claim for alleged “underpaid” medical bills after the parties had reached a settlement and an Order was entered. The Order provided that defendant would pay for “any unpaid, reasonable and necessary medical expenses for treatment rendered” to the claimant through date of entry of the Order. The Full Commission held that this language, again, did not preclude the claimant from seeking full payment of medical expenses incurred by the claimant but...

During this season of gratitude, we want to express our sincere appreciation to you. Your loyalty, feedback, and support have been essential to our journey. We wish you joy and a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Clients are often surprised when the legal advice provided differs when the case is being heard across the river. The matter of difference is simple: the Commonwealth of Virginia has a reputation of being considered an “Employer-friendly” jurisdiction. For example, Virginia allows time for Employers to fully investigate claims prior to accepting compensability and without having to defend against allegations of delay by the Claimant or their attorney. In comparison, the workers’ compensation laws of the District of Columbia are “Claimant-friendly”. In keeping with the prior example, DC allows for delay arguments without specification and more often than not, a...

For an injury to be compensable under the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Act, a claimant must prove that the injury arose out of and in the course and scope of his employment. An injury occurs “in the course of employment” when it takes place within the period of employment, at a place where the employee may be reasonably expected to be, and while he is reasonably fulfilling the duties of his employment or is doing something which is reasonably incidental thereto.” However, Virginia has adopted three doctrines which expands the “course of employment” prong of a compensable injury. These doctrines include...