Voice from the Chair

By John Parente
Chair of the California Lawyers Association, Workers’ Compensation Section
Executive Committee

I hope all is going well for everyone. It is hard to believe that we are already into the 3^rd month of the year. At the Executive Committee we are currently involved in attending the DWC Conferences and will have a booth at both Oakland and Los Angeles. Please stop by and say hello. We are seeking to encourage those workers’ compensation practitioners that were members to rejoin and those that are not members to join.

In addition, we are currently actively looking for members of the Workers’ Compensation Section to apply for the Executive Committee for induction in the fall of 2023 for a 3 year term. If you are interested, please get your application in by March 31^st.

It has been brought to my attention that with “in person” walk throughs that some attorneys and representatives are showing up to the Board in casual attire including denim. I wish to remind everyone that Policy and Procedure Manual Rule 1.155 requires appropriate dress for those appearing before a Workers Compensation Judge. Remember, a walk through is a hearing. In addition to following the rule it is also a sign of respect to the Appeals Board and the Judge.  This issue of the Enews contains a more detailed overview of what is required of litigants under Policy and Procedure Manual Rule 1.155

Finally, we will be looking for nominations for our Awards recipients in the coming months. As

you know, we honor a judge, applicant’s attorney, defense attorney, new attorney and a lifetime achievement recipient.  Please submit your suggestions to the Workers’ Compensation Executive Committee for consideration, here.