Legal Question in Workers Comp in Washington

Re: Worker's Compensation

The Department is responsible for all the costs including meals and lodging. However, unless there is good reason to come to Seattle, which I doubt, she should demand a panel nearby. Not know ing the facts I can only guess that her doctor gave her an impairment higher than the department thinks she should have and wants their "specialist" to lowball it. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, because if later she needs to reopen the claim she will have to show worsening. If she closed with a 10% impairment, she will have to show 11% at least. If she really should have been a 5 and is now really at 10, she has worsenned but can't prove it because she closed with a 10. See what I mean? Anyway, without the facts I am just guessing. She will have to do a panel regardless or they will cut off her benefits for non cooperation. In this situation you may want to consult an attorney directly, Good Luck

Paul