Norcross, GA Workers' Compensation Appeals Lawyer

Skilled Attorney Representing Clients in Workers' Compensation Appeals and Hearings in Norcross, Georgia

If you have received notice that your workers' compensation claim has been denied, your first reaction might be to panic. However, a denial does not mean you are out of options—far from it. A Norcross, Georgia workers' compensation lawyer can help you take legal action, representing you in appeals and hearings for the benefits you deserve.

At The Law Offices of John Morrison, we know how to navigate the complexities of Georgia workers' comp law. With over 470 5-star reviews attached to our firm, we have earned the trust of clients across Metro Atlanta for our steadfast counsel, fearless advocacy, and willingness to stand by our clients in court.

Why Do Workers' Compensation Claims Get Denied in Georgia?

In Georgia, claims can be denied for many different reasons, and some denials are based on disputes that can be challenged through a hearing or appeal. Some of these reasons include:

• The insurance company says the injury did not arise out of and in the course of employment.
• The worker did not report the injury on time or there is a dispute about when notice was given.
• The employer or insurer argues that the medical condition was pre-existing and not caused or aggravated by work.
• The worker did not seek treatment from an authorized provider, except in an emergency.
• The insurer claims there is not enough medical evidence to support disability or the need for treatment.
• The employer argues that the worker was an independent contractor, not an employee.

A denial is not always the final word. Sometimes the insurer is relying on incomplete facts, conflicting medical records, or a narrow reading of what happened. Alternatively, the insurer may accept that an accident occurred, but still deny wage benefits, deny certain medical care, or challenge how serious the injury is. Georgia's system provides ways to contest those decisions.

What Steps Can You Take to Appeal a Workers' Compensation Claim?

The first step is to review the reason for the denial carefully. You need to understand whether the dispute involves medical treatment, missed deadlines, the cause of the injury, disability status, or some other issue. From there, you can gather the records that support your position, such as accident reports, witness statements, treatment records, wage information, and communications from the insurance carrier.

In Georgia, Form WC-14 is the key form used to file a claim and to request a hearing or mediation before the State Board of Workers' Compensation. Mediation can sometimes resolve the dispute without a full contested hearing. If the case does not settle, it can proceed to a hearing before an administrative law judge, where both sides present evidence and arguments. The Board's ADR materials state that a WC-14 may be used to request mediation for issues other than settlement as well.

Escalating Your Workers' Compensation Claim in Georgia

If you lose at the hearing level, the case does not always end there. Under Georgia law, a party dissatisfied with a decision of an administrative law judge may generally appeal to the Appellate Division of the State Board of Workers' Compensation. That appeal generally must be filed within 20 days of the ALJ's final award or order.

After that, some cases can continue into the courts. The Board explains that appeals from the Appellate Division to higher courts are governed by a separate appellate procedure. That means a second denial can still leave room for further review, depending on the facts, the legal issues involved, and whether deadlines are met.

Contact a Norcross Workers' Compensation Appeals and Hearings Attorney Today

At The Law Offices of John Morrison, we help injured workers challenge unfair denials, prepare for hearings, and pursue appeals when necessary. Call 770-951-8900 or contact our Norcross workers' compensation appeals and hearings lawyer today to schedule a free consultation.